IN THE NAME OF ALLAH THE MOST BENEFICENT AND MERCIFUL
As Salamo Alaikum Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barkatahu, I am thankful to Allah for giving me the opportunity to compile many of my favorite Moral Stories, in the form of an electronic book, which I had collected from various resources, since last few years. Even though many of these stories are fictional in nature, but at the end they will give a great lesson to learn for a lifetime. As the reader can himself see from these stories, the subject “Moral” is universal to every human being. Hence these stories are not just for any particular sect or the followers of particular faith, it is for the entire humanity, irrespective of there belief, culture, race, color or age. So, let’s start with a Moral Story called as “A POND FULL OF MILK.” Once there was a king who told some of his workers to dig a pond. Once the pond was dug, the king made an announcement to his people saying that one person from each household has to bring a glass of milk during the night and pour it into the pond. So, the pond should be full of milk by the morning. After receiving the order, everyone went home. One man prepared to take the milk during the night. He thought that since everyone will bring milk, he could just hide a glass of water and pour inside the pond. Because it will be dark at night, no one will notice. So he quickly went and poured the water in the pond and came back. In the morning, the king came to visit the pond and to his surprise the pond was only filled with water! What has happened is that everyone was thinking like the other man that “I don't have to put the milk, someone else will do it.” Dear friends, when it comes to help the Religion of Allah, do not think that others will take care of it. Rather, it starts from you, if you don’t do it, no one else will do it. So, change yourself to the way of Allah to serve Him and that will make the difference. With this I will end my little introduction and pray that May Almighty Allah accept it. So that we may all benefit from these stories. Wassalamu Alaikum Wa Rahmutallahi Wa Barkatahu Akramulla Syed Islamic Occasions Network http://www.islamicoccasions.com Dated: Sunday, March 20, 2005
100 Moral Stories 1 www.islamicoccasions.com

LIST OF CONTENTS
001. A POND FULL OF MILK.....................................01 002. DON'T CHANGE THE WORLD.........................03 003. THE TRAVELERS AND THE TREE...................03 004. LEARN FROM MISTAKES..................................03 005. THE BOY WHO CRIED 'WOLF'.........................04 006. THE FARMER AND THE STORK......................04 007. THE HARE AND THE TORTOISE.....................05 008. THE ANT AND THE DOVE................................05 009. THE MONKEY AND THE DOLPHIN...............06 010. THE FOX AND THE STORK...............................06 011. THE WOLF AND THE LAMB.............................07 012. THE FOX AND THE GRAPES.............................07 013. THE THIRSTY CROW...........................................08 014. THE MILKMAID....................................................08 015. PARABLE OF THE PENCIL.................................09 016. THE BOY AND THE APPLE TREE....................10 017. THE ANGEL...........................................................11 018. THE DEVOTED MOTHER...................................12 019. MENTALLY RETARDED!....................................12 020. PAID IN FULL........................................................13 021. BEAUTIFUL GIFT!.................................................14 022. WHAT IS A FAMILY?...........................................14 023. TRUE WEALTH.....................................................16 024. A HOLE IN THE FENCE......................................16 025. GRANDPA’S TABLE.............................................17 026. FATHERS EYES......................................................17 027. BUTTERFLY AND COCOON..............................19 028. THE OBSTACLE IN OUR PATH.........................19 029. THE WOLF IN SHEEP’S CLOTHING................20 030. DON’T JUDGE A BOOK BY ITS COVER!.........20 031. MOUNTAIN STORY.............................................21 032. A LESSON FROM A FROG TALE......................22 033. WEAKNESS OR STRENGTH?.............................22 034. JUST P.U.S.H!..........................................................23 035. DETERMINATON.................................................24 036. THE CRACKED POT.............................................26 037. GOD EXISTS............................................................27 038. A BOY WITH STRONG BELIEF..........................27 039. A VERY POWERFUL STORY..............................28 040. WORDS & ACTIONS SHOULD BE SAME........29 041. YOU'RE MORE PRECIOUS THAN PEARLS....30 042. THE ONE-EYED DOE...........................................30 043. THE CAGE BIRD'S ESCAPE................................31 044. THE THREE WISE MEN.......................................32 045. THE CLEVER BOY.................................................33 046. A MERCHANT AND HIS DONKEY..................33 047. THE ANT AND THE GRASSHOPPER..............34 048. THE FOX WHO GOT CAUGHT IN TREE.........34 049. CATS AND ROOSTERS........................................35 050. THE PROUD RED ROSE.......................................36
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051. THE SELFISH MAN..............................................37 052. YOU ARE PRICELESS...........................................37 053. BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU PLANT...................38 054. GENEROSITY.........................................................39 055. THE CRYSTAL BALL............................................40 056. THE SIGNS OF HAPPINESS................................41 057. HOPE AND GREED..............................................42 058. FOUR WIVES..........................................................43 059. LION, RATS, SNAKE & HONECOMB...............44 060. THE MOST BEAUTIFUL HEART.......................45 061. THE CLUB 99..........................................................46 062. REPENTANCE........................................................47 063. THE NEIGHBOR....................................................48 064. A BOX FULL OF KISSES.......................................48 065. THE THREE COWS...............................................49 066. A WHITE HAS NO SUPERIORITY.....................50 067. GHULAMHUSSEIN AND THE GAME.............51 068. FINDERS KEEPERS...............................................51 069. BANDAGE OF COMPLAINT!.............................51 070. AN AGED STUDENT............................................52 071. WEALTH - LOVE - SUCCESS..............................53 072. LOVE AND TIME..................................................54 073. ALWAYS THANKFUL TO GOD........................54 074. THE MAYONNAISE AND THE COFFEE.........55 075. THE BAR.................................................................55 076. LESSONS ON LIFE................................................56 077. THE ROSE WITHIN..............................................56 078. PUT THE GLASS DOWN!....................................57 079. MAY I NEVER GET TOO BUSY..........................58 080. DON’T WE ALL.....................................................58 081. THE STRANGER IN THE GARDEN..................60 082. TO TELL THE TRUTH..........................................60 083. WHEN THE WINDS BLOW................................61 084. THE ROPE...............................................................62 085. THE SHIP................................................................62 086. THE CLEVER KING!.............................................63 087. THE ILLUSION OF REFLECTION.....................65 088. BUILDING YOUR HOUSE...................................66 089. SAND AND STONE..............................................66 090. A TEACHER’S PROTEST!....................................67 091. DO NOT DO EVIL TO ANYONE.......................68 092. PUPPIES FOR SALE..............................................68 093. OFFFICE BOY.........................................................69 094. ONE BEDROOM FLAT.........................................70 095. THEY ARE NOT IN NEED...................................71 096. YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL!........................................72 097. BE PATIENT............................................................73 098. THE FATHER AND HIS SONS...........................73 099. A SENSE OF A GOOSE.........................................74 100. MAKING A DIFFERENCE...................................74
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LEARN FROM MISTAKES
Thomas Edison tried two thousand different materials in search of a filament for the light bulb. He then ordered his people to cover every road of the entire country with leather.com
. Islam teaches us that we should never belittle Allah’s blessings.” Edison replied very confidently. and not the world. shielding you from the hot sun. When none worked satisfactorily. and the road that he went through was very rough and stony. One day. It does not have fruit or nuts that we can eat and we cannot even use its wood for anything. we have come a long way and we have learned a lot.” “Don’t be so ungrateful. they threw themselves on the ground to rest in its shade. but he later agreed to his suggestion. there was a king who ruled a prosperous country. his assistant complained. We have learned nothing. And you call me a good-for-nothing!” All of God’s creations have a good purpose. Then one of his wise servants dared himself to tell the king. and would cost a huge amount of money. Soon it became too hot to go any further and. “All our work is in vain. seeing a large plane tree nearby. this would need thousands of cows’ skin.
THE TRAVELERS AND THE PLANE TREE
Two men were walking along one summer day. There is actually a valuable lesson of life in this story: to make this world a happy place to live.”
100 Moral Stories 3 www. “I am being extremely useful to you at this very moment. Definitely. We now know that there are two thousand elements which we cannot use to make a good light bulb. he went for a trip to some distant areas of his country. When he was back to his palace. to make a “shoe” for himself. “Why do you have to spend that unnecessary amount of money? Why don’t you just cut a little piece of leather to cover your feet?” The king was surprised. you better change yourself .islamicoccasions.your heart. he complained that his feet were very painful.” rustled the tree in reply. Gazing up into the branches one man said to the other: “What a useless tree this is. because it was the first time that he went for such a long trip. “Oh.DON'T CHANGE THE WORLD
Once upon a time.

. I lied before. and you must suffer with the company in which you are found. I was only playing a trick on you.” People are judged by the company they keep. They were very angry with him for being so naughty.THE BOY WHO CRIED 'WOLF'
Once there was a shepherd boy who had to look after a flock of sheep. It was true. Then. “Release me.” A few days later. and then another and another.a most dutiful bird. We may not believe someone who often tells lies. Ha. I am a poor innocent stork.” But the farmer cut him short. “Help! Wolf! Wolf!” The villagers heard his cries and rushed out of the village to help the shepherd boy. When he went to examine the net next morning he found a number of cranes and also a stork. “All this may be true enough. I dare say. nor have I done you any harm. I honor my father and mother. the villagers rushed up the hill to help him and again they found that boy had tricked them. The boy ran to the nearest villager and said. The shepherd boy ran towards the village shouting. but this time it is true!” Finally. I. a wolf went into the field. “Where is the wolf?” The shepherd boy laughed loudly.
THE FARMER AND THE STORK
Finding that cranes were destroying his newly sown corn. he felt bored and decided to play a trick on the villagers. They could see the wolf running away and many dead sheep lying on the grass. but I have caught you with those were destroying my crops. He shouted. I beseech you.com
. the shepherd boy played this trick again.islamicoccasions. Again he cried. a farmer one evening set a net in his field to catch the destructive birds. some time later.
100 Moral Stories 4 www. “Ha. The wolf attacked one sheep. One day.” cried the stork. the villagers went to look. “for I have eaten none of your corn. “Help! Help! Wolf! Wolf!” Again. “Help! Help! Wolf! Help! Somebody!” The villagers heard his cries but they laughed because they thought it was another trick. even when he tells the truth. “A wolf is attacking the sheep.. Ha! I fooled all of you. When they reached him. they asked. as you may see .

my. Slow and steady can win the race. I can easily win the race. While making her way up. you move so slowly. she slipped and fell into the water. To reach the spring.
THE ANT AND THE DOVE
One hot day. The dove was quick to fly away to safety. After walking around for some time.” Off he ran. the ant quickly bit him on the heel. “I might as well take a nap.
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www. a hunter nearby was throwing out his net towards the dove. The ant moved towards the leaf and climbed up there. Feeling the pain. She could have drowned if a dove up a nearby tree had not seen her. After a while. “Let’s have a race and see who is faster. “Even if she catches up with me. the hare stopped to wait for the tortoise to come long. hoping to trap it. she came to a spring. an ant was searching for some water. the tortoise was near the finishing line. but he could not catch up with the tortoise.” So he lay down under a shady tree and closed his eyes. said. you will never get far!” The tortoises. leaving the tortoise far behind. Seeing that the ant was in trouble. the dove quickly plucked off a leaf and dropped it into the water near the struggling ant. He waited and waited till he felt sleepy. the hunter dropped his net. When the tortoise passed the sleeping hare. Guessing what he was about to do. upset by the hare’s manner. By the time the hare woke up. “My. Just at that time. “You must be joking! But all right.islamicoccasions.THE HARE AND THE TORTOISE
A tortoise one day met a hare who made fun of her. He ran as fast as he could. she had to climb up a blade of grass.” The hare laughed and said. Soon it carried her safely to dry ground.com
. she walked on slowly but steadily. One good turn deserves another. we’ll see who reaches the other side of the hill first.” he thought.

“That is easy. The poor stork just smiled politely and stayed hungry. the king of the island is my best friend. the stork could not have any of it as the bowl was too shallow for her long beak.” The next day. “How can I be a king?” As the dolphin started swimming away. the stork flew to the fox’s home and knocked on the door with her long beak. Suddenly a dolphin appeared and picked him up. so you are a prince! Now you can be a king!” The monkey asked. In fact. some sailors set out to sea in their sailing ship. Everyone fell into the sea. They soon reached the island and the monkey came down from the dolphin’s back. Do you know that I am actually a prince?” Knowing that no one lived on the island. The stork drank the soup easily but the fox could not reach inside the tall jug. As you are the only creature on this island. and the monkey was sure that he would drown.THE MONKEY AND THE DOLPHIN
One day long ago.
THE FOX AND THE STORK
A selfish fox once invited a stork to dinner at his home in a hollow tree. This time it was his turn to go hungry. The dolphin asked the monkey.com
. “Stork. “Well. he answered. “Please come in and share my food. you will naturally be the king!” Those who lie and boast may end up in trouble. Tomorrow evening. “Yes. he saw that they were also having soup for dinner. When they were far out at sea. when the fox arrived at the stork’s home. She was very hungry and the food smelled delicious! The fox served soup in shallow bowls and he licked up all his soup very quickly. The fox opened the door and said. A selfish act can backfire on you. However. please join me for dinner at my home. well.
100 Moral Stories 6 www. “Do you know this place?” The monkey replied. That evening. I do. a terrible storm overturned their ship. The selfish fox asked. This time the soup was served in tall jugs. “It was very kind of you to invite me for dinner. why haven’t you taken your soup? Don’t you like it?” The stork replied.islamicoccasions. the dolphin said.” The stork was invited to sit down at the table. One of them brought his pet monkey along for the long journey.

100 Moral Stories 7 www. The fox looked carefully around him. away from the others.” The wolf took the bell and rang it as hard as he could. He had to make sure that he was safe from the hunters. he said to himself. He backed off. He jumped upwards but he could not reach the grapes. He still could not reach them. Again he failed to reach them. It was getting dark. She was enjoying herself so much that she did not notice a wolf coming nearer to her. As he came nearer. His legs hurt with all that running and jumping.com
. “I don’t really want those grapes. After a while. and he was getting angry. took some running steps and leapt into the air towards the grapes. As he walked away. If you wait a while. I’m sure they are too sour to eat. Farther and farther she went. He jumped again as high as he could. While the lamb was dancing.THE WOLF AND THE LAMB
A lamb was grazing with a flock of sheep one day. so he sat down and waited. At last he stopped trying. when it pounced on her. we pretend that it is not worth having. he could see some bunches of juicy grapes. “If you allow me to dance. The barking dogs frightened the wolf away and saved the lamb’s life. The gentle and weak can sometimes be cleverer than fierce and strong. she was quick to start pleading. The shepherd heard the bell ringing and quickly sent his dogs to find the missing lamb. “Please.islamicoccasions. the grass in my stomach will be digested faster. The grapes were just too high for him! He was not ready to give up. the lamb said.” The wolf thought that was a good idea. I will taste much better. If you ring it as hard as you can.” Again the wolf agreed. Soon he came to a vineyard. please don’t eat me yet. She soon found some sweet grass at the edge of the field. she had a new idea. My stomach is full of grass. However. He decided to steal some before anyone came along. “Please take the bell from around my neck.” Sometimes when we cannot get what we want. I will be able to dance even faster.
THE FOX AND THE GRAPES
It was a sunny day and fox was walking across the fields. She said.

Her plan had worked! If you try hard enough. “Soon.” As she walked on. She started picking up the pebbles one by one. she could see some water inside the jug! The crow tried to push her head into the jug. Do not count your chickens before they are hatched.islamicoccasions. Then she tried to push the jug down for the water to flow out. I’ll buy a hundred chicks to rear in my backyard. she continued dreaming. She suddenly had a good idea. and I will have more milk to sell. she found that the neck of the jug was too narrow. I can sell them at an even better price!” Still dreaming. The crow thought hard for a while. Suddenly.. she sat down and cried. As more and more pebbles filled the jug. you may soon find an answer to your problem.. Sadly. As she carried the large jug of milk on top of her head. For a long time. Then I shall have even more money. “Then I’ll buy two young goats and rear them on the grass close by.
THE MILKMAID
A milkmaid was on her way to the market to sell some milk from her cow. she saw some pebbles. Yes. she could not find any. a thirsty crow flew all over the fields looking for water. She found that the jug was too heavy. almost giving up hope. The jug broke and all the milk spilt onto the ground. she said to herself. Soon it was high enough for the crow to drink.” With these happy thoughts.com
. dropping each into the jug.THE THIRSTY CROW
One hot day. I can sell them at a good price at the market. Then looking around her. When they are fully grown. No more dreaming now. she saw a water jug below her. the water level kept rising.
100 Moral Stories 8 www. she began to skip and jump. She flew straight down to see if there was any water inside. she began to dream of all the things she could do after selling the milk. I’ll be able to buy another cow. She felt very weak. Suddenly she tripped and fell. When they are fully grown. “With that money.

” And Five: “On every surface you are used on.” The pencil understood and promised to remember. Now replacing the place of the pencil with you.” he told the pencil.” Allow this parable on the pencil to encourage you to know that you are a special person and only you can fulfill the purpose to which you were born to accomplish. you must continue to do your duties. And allow other human beings to access you for the many gifts you possess. just before putting him into the box. and you will become the best person you can be.” Four: “The most important part of you will always be what's inside. but you’ll need it to become a stronger person. “There are 5 things you need to know.” Three: “You will be able to correct any mistakes you might make.” Two: “You will experience a painful sharpening from time to time.
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www. you must leave your mark.” Two: “You will experience a painful sharpening from time to time.” One: “You will be able to do many great things.” Three: “You will be able to correct any mistakes you might make. Never allow yourself to get discouraged and think that your life is insignificant and cannot make a change. “Before I send you out into the world.” And Five: “On every surface you walk through. No matter what the situation. but you’ll need it to become a better pencil.com
. by going through various problems in life. but only if you allow yourself to be held in God’s hand. you must leave your mark. Always remember them and never forget.” Four: “The most important part of you will always be what’s on the inside. but only if you allow yourself to be held in someone’s hand. Always remember them and never forget. No matter what the condition. One: “You will be able to do many great things. and went into the box with purpose in its heart.islamicoccasions. you must continue to write.PARABLE OF THE PENCIL
The Pencil Maker took the pencil aside. and you will become the best pencil you can be.

You can sail far away and be happy.islamicoccasions. the boy came back to the tree and he looked sad. We need a house for shelter. The tree was sad. I need money to buy them. “No problem. the little boy had grown up and he no longer played around the tree every day. but I do not have any house. He grabbed all the apples on the tree and left happily. One day. but I do not have money. “Come and play with me”. A little boy loved to come and play around it everyday.” The boy was so excited. “Sorry. But I do not have anything for you anymore.
100 Moral Stories 10 www. So. I want to go sailing to relax myself. Finally. One day. He loved the tree and the tree loved to play with him. ate the apples. my boy.com
. “Use my trunk to build your boat. Can you help me?” “Sorry. “I am no longer a kid. He climbed to the treetop. there was a huge apple tree. Time went by.” So the man cut the tree trunk to make a boat. the man returned and the tree was delighted.” “Sorry.” So the man cut all the branches of the tree and left happily. but you can pick all my apples and sell them. He went sailing and never showed up for a long time. the boy who now turned into a man returned and the tree was excited. The boy never came back after he picked the apples.THE BOY AND THE APPLE TREE
A long time ago. The tree was again lonely and sad. I do not play around trees any more” the boy replied. “I do not have time to play. “Come and play with me!” the tree said. No more apples for you”. I have to work for my family. “I am getting old. Can you give me a boat?” said the man. “Come and play with me” the tree said. the tree said. and took a nap under the shadow. the man returned after many years. But you can chop off my branches to build your house. the tree asked the boy. “I want toys. One hot summer day. you will have money. The tree was glad to see him happy but the man never came back since then. I do not have any teeth to bite” the man replied.

“Your angel will defend you. “I do not need much now. God said. “Your angel will tell you the most beautiful and sweet words you will ever hear. until it’s too late. And you will feel your angel’s love and be happy.” the man replied. “Your angel will sing for you every day. When we grow up. “They tell me you are going to send me to earth tomorrow but how am I going to live there being so small and helpless?” God replied. we loved to play with our Mum and Dad. “Your angel will always talk to you about me and will teach you the way to come back to me. parents will always be there and give everything they could just to make you happy. I am tired after all these years. The tree is like our parents. even if it means risking life!” The child looked sad. You may think the boy is cruel to the tree.” Said child. “But I will always be sad because I will not see you anymore. One day the child asked God. Who will protect me?” God replied.” God replied.islamicoccasions. only come to them when we need something or when we are in trouble. She will be waiting for you and will take care of you. asked softly.” At that moment there was much peace in Heaven.” The child looked up at God saying. Your angel’s name is of no importance… you will simply call her
MOTHER!
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www. we don’t appreciate all they do for us. “Among the many angels I have chosen one for you.” “I am too old for that now” the man said. This is a story of everyone. May Allah forgives us of our shortcomings and may He guide us. if I don’t know the language that men talk?” “That’s easy”. “And what am I going to do when I want to talk to you?” God smiled at the child saying. Wallahi.com
. “I really cannot give you anything. but voices from earth could already be heard. even though I will always be next to you. the only thing left is my dying roots.” The child said.
THE ANGEL
Once upon a time there was a child ready to be born. “Your angel will teach you how to pray.” the tree said with tears. That’s what I need to be happy!” God replied. The child in a hurry. saying.“No more trunk for you to climb on. When we were young. but that is how all of us treat our parents. “I’ve heard on earth there are bad men.” The man sat down and the tree was glad and smiled with tears. We take them for granted. we leave them. your angel will teach you how to speak. just a place to rest. said the child.” And. if I am about to leave now please tell me my angel’s name!” God replied. come sit down with me and rest. and with much patience and care. “Good! Old tree roots are the best place to lean on and rest. No matter what. “Oh God. “How am I going to be able to understand when people talk to me. “But tell me here in Heaven I don’t do anything else but sing and smile.

The mother duck ran. At the gun. and the cheering went on for several minutes. leading the fox away from the lake. that is. even if it means slowing down and changing our course. She was relieved. all physically or mentally disabled.. People who were there are still telling the story. so she stopped and took a deep breath.. One girl with Down’s syndrome bent down and kissed him and said. All of a sudden the mother duck saw a fox in the distance. What matters in this life is helping others win.
MENTALLY RETARDED!
A few years ago.
100 Moral Stories 12 www. The mother duck wondered what to do. Everyone in the stadium stood. The mother duck looked towards her ducklings and saw that they had reached the lake. “It seems that she’s hurt and can’t fly! I can easily catch and eat her!” Then he ran towards her. The fox followed her. When the enemy follows them this gives their children time to escape. they all started out. He could not reach them because they were in the middle of the lake. hurry to the lake. but the mother duck quickly spread her wings and rose up in the air. Now he wouldn’t be able to harm her ducklings.” Then all nine linked arms and walked together to the finish line. The other eight heard the boy cry. not exactly in a dash. There’s a fox!” The ducklings hurried towards the lake. She was frightened and shouted. Dear children. She landed in the middle of the lake and her ducklings swam to her.com
.. assembled at the starting line for the 100-yard dash. All.islamicoccasions. except one little boy who stumbled on the asphalt. “Children. “This will make it better. The ducklings were very happy following their mother and quack-quacking along the way.every one of them.. She began to walk back and forth dragging one wing on the ground. at the Seattle Special Olympics. and began to cry. When the fox saw her he became happy. The fox thought she was tired and he came closer. They slowed down and looked back. He said to himself. but with a relish to run the race to the finish and win. Why? Because deep down we know this one thing: What matters in this life is more than winning for ourselves. some birds drag one of their wings on the ground when an enemy is going to attack. nine contestants. In this way they fool their enemies into thinking they are hurt.THE DEVOTED MOTHER
A mother duck and her little ducklings were on their way to the lake one day. The fox stared in disbelief at the mother duck and her ducklings. tumbled over a couple of times. Then they all turned around and went back.

When the boy finished reading what his mother had written. and this is what it said: For cutting the grass: $5. “Mom. and he looked straight up at his mother and said.PAID IN FULL
A little boy came up to his mother in the kitchen one evening while she was fixing supper. and he handed her a piece of paper that he had been writing on. and even wiping your nose: No Charge.islamicoccasions.75 Well.50 Baby-sitting my kid brother while you went shopping: $.00 For getting a good report card: $5.00 Total owed: $14.00 For cleaning up and raking the yard: $2.25 Taking out the garbage: $1. and for the worries I knew were ahead: No Charge. For all the nights that I’ve sat up with you. food.”
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www. turned over the paper he had written on.00 For going to the store for you: $. and the boy could see the memories flashing through her mind.com
. For the toys. After his mom dried her hands on an apron.00 For cleaning up my room this week: $1. For all the trying times. She picked up the pen. his mother looked at him standing there. I sure do love you. For all the nights filled with dread. and this is what she wrote: For the nine months I carried you while you were growing inside me: No Charge.” And then he took the pen and in great big letters he wrote:
“PAID IN FULL. clothes. she read it. the cost of my love is: No Charge. When you add it up. doctored and prayed for you: No Charge. there were big tears in his eyes. and all the tears that you’ve caused through the years: No Charge.

he told him that was all he wanted. “Daddy. Before he could make arrangements. what is it?” replied the man. Many years passed and the young man was very successful in business. and knowing his father could well afford it. but realized his father was very old. may I ask you a question?” DAD: “Yeah sure. Looking up. and willed all of his possessions to his son. with his head down. he raised his voice at his father and said. SON: “Daddy. “With all your money you give me a Holy book?” and stormed out of the house. He had a beautiful home and wonderful family.islamicoccasions. Why do you ask such a thing?” the man said angrily. SON: “I just want to know. As Graduation Day approached. He had not seen him since that graduation day. I make $20 an hour. and told him how much he loved him.BEAUTIFUL GIFT!
A young man was getting ready to graduate college. As he Read those words. and thought perhaps he should go to him. the young man awaited signs that his father had purchased the car. He began to search his father’s important papers and saw the still new Holy Qur’an. may I please borrow $10?”
100 Moral Stories 14 www. he said. but somewhat disappointed the young man opened the box and found a lovely. just as he had left it years ago. He needed to come home immediately and take care things. Please tell me.com
. He never contacted his father again for long long time. a car key dropped from an envelope taped behind the Holy Qur’an. and the words PAID IN FULL. he received a telegram telling him his father had passed away. leather-bound Holy Qur’an. For many months he had admired a beautiful sports car in a dealer’s showroom. sudden sadness and regret filled his heart. tired and irritated. the same dealer who had the sports car he had desired. how much do you make an hour?” DAD: “If you must know. When he arrived at his father’s house. How many times do we miss GOD blessings because they are not packaged as we expected?
WHAT IS A FAMILY?
A man came home from work late. Curious. It had a tag with the dealer’s name. how much do you make an hour?” DAD: “That’s none of your business. Angrily. he opened the Holy Qur’an and began to turn the pages. SON: “Daddy. to find his 5-year old son waiting for him at the door. leaving the holy book. He handed his son a beautiful wrapped gift box.” the little boy replied. On the morning of his graduation his father called him into his private study. With tears. His father told him how proud he was to have such a fine son.” “Oh. On the tag was the date of his graduation.

seeing that the boy already had money.. An unwise investment indeed! So what is the moral of the story??? Don’t work too hard. Here’s the $10 you asked for.” The little boy sat straight up.islamicoccasions. “It’s been a long day and I took out my aggravation on you. “Are you asleep. “If the only reason you asked that is so you can borrow some money to buy a silly toy or some other nonsense. And come to think of it. but now I do. The man went to the door of the little boy’s room and opened the door. “Oh. Can I buy an hour of your time? Please come home early tomorrow. “Because I didn’t have enough. maybe I was too hard on you earlier. I have $20 now. Then. smiling. The little boy slowly counted out his money.(I)(L)OVE (Y)OU!
100 Moral Stories 15 www. then you march yourself straight to your room and go to bed. “I’ve been thinking. “Why do you want more money if you already have some?” the father grumbled. If we die tomorrow.” The little boy quietly went to his room and shut the door. It’s just a short reminder to all of you working so hard in life. But even better.” replied the boy. thank you daddy!” He yelled.The father was furious. The man sat down and started to get even angrier about the little boy’s questions. But the family & friends we leave behind will feel the loss for the rest of their lives. share $20 worth of time with someone you love.” the little boy replied. How dare he ask such questions only to get some money? After about an hour or so.” said the man.. started to get angry again. son?” He asked..and you know what’s the full word of FAMILY?
FAMILY = (F)ATHER (A)ND (M)OTHER... the man had calmed down. Think about why you are being so selfish. I work hard everyday for such this childish behavior. “Daddy. and then looked up at his father.” Share this story with someone you like. the company that we are working for could easily replace us in a matter of days.com
. those close to our hearts. The man. “No daddy. reaching under his pillow he pulled out some crumpled up bills. we pour ourselves more into work than to our family. We should not let time slip through our fingers without having spent some time with those who really matter to us. I’m awake. and started to think: Maybe there was something he really needed to buy with that $10 and he really didn’t ask for money very often. I would like to have dinner with you.

” “We have imported lanterns in our garden and they have the stars at night. as he learned to control his anger. The first day the boy had driven 37 nails into the fence.” “We have servants who serve us.” “Our patio reaches to the front yard and they have the whole horizon. We have a pool that reaches to the middle of our garden and they have a creek that has no end. the number of nails hammered daily gradually dwindled down. he must hammer a nail into the back of the fence. indeed. They spent a couple of days and nights on the farm of what would be considered a very poor family. “How was the trip?” “It was great.. Friends and loved ones are a very rare jewel.com
. “You have done well. but they serve others.. they leave a scar just like this one. Over the next few weeks. the wound is still there.” With this the boy’s father was speechless. On their return from their trip. He said. but look at the holes in the fence. A verbal wound is as bad as a physical one.” “We have walls around our property to protect us.” “We have a small piece of land to live on and they have fields that go beyond our sight. they have friends to protect them. They make you smile and encourage you to succeed. So be careful little lips what you say…! And you won't chase friendships away. “Oh yeah” said the son. It won’t matter how many times you say I’m sorry.” “We buy our food.TRUE WEALTH
One day a father of a very wealthy family took his son on a trip to the country with the purpose of showing his son how the poor people live so he could be thankful for his wealth. When you say things in anger. He told his father about it and the father suggested that the boy now pull out one nail for each day that he was able to hold his temper. You can put a knife in a man and draw it out.islamicoccasions. They lend an ear. but they grow theirs. “I saw that we have one dog and they had four.
100 Moral Stories 16 www.”
A HOLE IN THE FENCE
There once was a little boy who had a bad temper.. “Thanks dad for showing me how poor we are. they share a word of praise. He discovered it was easier to hold his temper than to drive those nails into the fence. Dad. and they always want to open their hearts to us.” “Did you see how poor people can be?” the father asked. The father took his son by the hand and led him to the fence. Water your relationships with kindness… and they will grow. Finally the day came when the boy didn’t lose his temper at all. my son.” The fence will never be the same. “So what did you learn from the trip?” asked the father. The son answered. the father asked his son. The day passed and the young boy was finally able to tell his father that all the nails were gone. Then his son added. His Father gave him a bag of nails and told him that every time he lost his temper.

” The four-year-old smiled and went back to work. and those you love. Let’s be wise builders and role models. Grandfather ate alone while the rest of the family enjoyed dinner. But the young man loved football and decided to hang in there. . his food was served in a wooden bowl. always with words of encouragement for him. Since Grandfather had broken a dish or two. their ears ever listen. He never missed a game. The words so struck the parents that they were speechless.. His faithful father was always in the stands. Peas rolled off his spoon onto the floor. Even though the son was always on the bench. Though no word was spoken. and everyday!”
FATHERS EYES
A teenager lived alone with his father.com
.. the only words the couple had for him were sharp admonitions when he dropped a fork or spilled food. This young man was the smallest of the class when he entered high school. and his step faltered. “What are you making?” Just as sweetly. The wise parent realizes that every day the building blocks are being laid for the child’s future. . Then tears started to stream down their cheeks. His father continued to encourage him but also made it very clear that he did not have to play football if he didn’t want to. BENJAMIN DISRAELI Children are remarkably perceptive. One evening before supper. He asked the child sweetly. both knew what must be done. Take care of yourself. the glass. “Life is about people connecting with people. There. But the elderly grandfather’s shaky hands and failing sight made eating difficult. All through high school he never missed a practice or a game. Their eyes ever observe. neither husband nor wife seemed to care “Little Things Affect Little Minds” any longer when a fork was dropped. milk spilled on the tablecloth. sometimes he had a tear in his eye as he sat alone. The family ate together at the table. and food on the floor. For the remainder of his days he ate every meal with the family. When the family glanced in Grandfather’s direction. the boy responded.islamicoccasions.. they will imitate that attitude for the rest of their lives. or the tablecloth soiled. his eyesight was blurred. “I’ve had enough of his spilled milk. I am making a little bowl for you and Mama to eat your food in when I grow up. the father noticed his son playing with wood scraps on the floor. milk spilled. The son and daughter-in-law became irritated with the mess. “Oh.. And for some reason.GRANDPA’S TABLE
A frail old man went to live with his son. but remained a bench warmer all four years. The father believed in encouragement. his father was always in the stands cheering.” said the son. If they see us patiently provide a happy home atmosphere for family members. The four-year-old watched it all in silence. noisy eating. “We must do something about Grandfather. The old man’s hands trembled. and their minds ever process the messages they absorb. When the young man went
100 Moral Stories 17 www.. daughter-in-law.. and perhaps he’d get to play when he became a senior. today. Still. and the two of them had a very special relationship. That evening the husband took Grandfather’s hand and gently led him back to the family table. and making a positive difference. .” So the husband and wife set a small table in the corner. He was determined to try his best at every practice. When he grasped. and four-year old grandson.

” he said. “Dad came to all my games. he mumbled to the coach. son.” said the young man. and said. The young man read the telegram and he became deathly silent. the coach. I’ve just got to play today. and as he trotted onto the practice field shortly before the big play off game.” Before long. “All right. you knew my dad died. There was no way he wanted his worst player in this close playoff game. blocked and tackled like a star. but today was the first time he could see me play. The score was soon tied. Is it all right if I miss practice today?” The coach put his arm gently around his shoulder and said. In the closing seconds of the game. “My father died this morning. And don’t even plan to come back to the game on Saturday. was doing everything right. The coach pretended not to hear him. but he did. the players and everyone in the stands could not believe their eyes. with tears in his eyes.to college. and at the same time. the coach noticed that the young man was sitting quietly in the corner all alone. the coach met him with a telegram. This persistent young athlete never missed practice during his four years at college. and finally feeling sorry for the kid. but he never got to play in the game. You were fantastic!” Tell me what got into you? How did you do it? He looked at the coach. The opposing team could not stop him. His team began to triumph. Swallowing hard. The coach came to him and said. As he ran onto the sidelines. The coach admitted that he kept him on the roster because he always puts his heart and soul to every practice. when the team was ten points behind. he decided to try out for the football team as a “walk-on. “Coach. In the third quarter. the coach gave in. But the young man persisted. the coach and his players were astounded to see their faithful team-mate back so soon. please let me play. The news that he had survived the cut thrilled him so much that he rushed to the nearest phone and called his father.” Everyone was sure he could never make the cut. He ran. “Take the rest of the week off. His father shared his excitement and was sent season tickets for all the college games. provided the other members with the spirit and hustle they badly needed. Such cheering you’ve never heard! Finally. “You can go in. and the game was not going well. after the stands had emptied and the team had showered and left the locker room.com
. and I wanted to show him I could do it!”
100 Moral Stories 18 www. a silent young man quietly slipped into the empty locker room and put on his football gear.islamicoccasions. I can’t believe it. His team-mates hoisted him onto their shoulders. who had never played before. It was the end of his senior football season. “Well. This little unknown. “Kid. The fans broke loose. but did you know that my dad was blind?” The young man swallowed hard and forced a smile. this kid intercepted a pass and ran all the way for the winning touchdown.” Saturday arrived. he passed.

Then he hid himself and watched to see if anyone would remove the huge rock. which would contract in time. It never was able to fly. the peasant laid down his burden and tried to move the stone to the side of the road. shriveled wings. but none did anything about getting the big stone out of the way. What this man in his kindness and haste did not understand was that the restricting cocoon and the struggle required for the butterfly to get through the tiny opening were nature's way of forcing fluid from the body of the butterfly into its wings so that it would be ready for flight once it achieved its freedom from the cocoon.BUTTERFLY AND COCOON
A man found a cocoon of a butterfly. The man continued to watch the butterfly because he expected that. at any moment. It appeared as if it had gotten as far as it could and it could go no farther.islamicoccasions. One day a small opening appeared. a king had a boulder placed on a roadway. Some of the king’s wealthiest merchants and courtiers came by and simply walked around it.com
. he finally succeeded. As the peasant picked up his load of vegetables. Sometimes struggles are exactly what we need in our life. The peasant learned what many others never understand. he noticed a purse lying in the road where the boulder had been. the wings would enlarge and expand to be able to support the body. it would cripple us. On approaching the boulder.
100 Moral Stories 19 www. Then the man decided to help the butterfly. Every obstacle presents an opportunity to improve one’s condition.. Then it seemed to stop making any progress. so he took a pair of scissors and snipped off the remaining bit of the cocoon. If nature allowed us to go through our life without any obstacles. We would not be as strong as what we could have been. he sat and watched the butterfly for several hours as it struggled to force its body through that little hole. Then a peasant came along carrying a load of vegetables. The purse contained many gold coins and a note from the king indicating that the gold was for the person who removed the boulder from the roadway. Many loudly blamed the king for not keeping the roads clear.
THE OBSTACLE IN OUR PATH
In ancient times.. The butterfly then emerged easily. But it had a swollen body and small. Neither happened! In fact. After much pushing and straining. And we could never fly. the butterfly spent the rest of its life crawling around with a swollen body and shriveled wings.

For hours the secretary ignored them.THE WOLF IN SHEEP’S CLOTHING
A Wolf found great difficulty in getting at the sheep owing to the vigilance of the shepherd and his dogs. “He’ll be busy all day. so. If we did. The president. “We want to see the president..” the lady replied. “Madam. They didn’t and the secretary grew frustrated and finally decided to disturb the president. But about a year ago.islamicoccasions. “We don’t want to erect a statue. he soon made a meal off her.” she said to him. he was accidentally killed.” the secretary snapped. even though it was a chore she always regretted. “Maybe if you see them for a few minutes. this place would look like a cemetery. “we can’t put up a statue for every person who attended Harvard and died.” The president wasn’t touched.” he said.”
100 Moral Stories 20 www. and for some time he succeeded in deceiving the sheep. The Lamb that belonged to the sheep.” the lady explained quickly. “We had a son who attended Harvard for one year.com
. gruffly. but he detested gingham dresses and homespun suits cluttering up his outer office. He loved Harvard. Someone of his importance obviously didn’t have the time to spend with them. and enjoying hearty meals. they’ll leave. stern faced and with dignity. The secretary could tell in a moment that such backwoods. He was shocked. But one day it found the skin of a sheep that had been flayed and thrown aside.
DON’T JUDGE A BOOK BY ITS COVER!
A lady in a faded gingham dress and her husband. country hicks had no business at Harvard and probably didn’t even deserve to be in Cambridge. strutted toward the couple. so it put it on over its own pelt and strolled down among the sheep. “We’ll wait. He was happy here. no.. He sighed in exasperation and nodded. dressed in a homespun threadbare suit. My husband and I would like to erect a memorial to him. Appearances are deceptive. The lady told him. hoping that the couple would finally become discouraged and go away.” the man said softly. began to follow the Wolf in the Sheep’s clothing.” “Oh. whose skin the Wolf was wearing.. somewhere on campus. We thought we would like to give a building to Harvard. leading the Lamb a little apart. stepped off the train in Boston and walk timidly without an appointment into the Harvard University President’s outer office.

Leland Stanford got up and walked away. Life will give you back everything you have given to it. in all aspects of life. This relationship applies to everything. California where they established the University that bears their name. Stanford University. he hears the voice repeating.” Again the man screams: “You are a champion!” The voice answers: “You are a champion!” The boy is surprised. Our life is simply a reflection of our actions. somewhere in the mountain: “AAAhhhhhhhhhhh!” Curious. but does not understand. The lady turned to her husband and said quietly. he screams: “Coward!” He receives the answer: “Coward!” He looks to his father and asks: “What’s going on?” The father smiles and says: “My son. “A building! Do you have any earthly idea how much a building costs? We have over seven and a half million dollars in the physical buildings here at Harvard. his son falls. Mr. traveling to Palo Alto. and then exclaimed.” For a moment the lady was silent. improve your competence. but really this is LIFE. Maybe he could get rid of them now. “Is that all it costs to start a university? Why don’t we just start our own?” Her husband nodded. Suddenly.” It gives you back everything you say or do. and Mrs. he yells: “Who are you?” He receives the answer: “Who are you?” And then he screams to the mountain: “I admire you!” The voice answers: “I admire you!” Angered at the response. You can easily judge the character of others by how they treat those who they think can do nothing. a memorial to a son that Harvard no longer cared about. It’s a reflection of you!”
100 Moral Stories 21 www. He glanced at the gingham dress and homespun suit. create more love in your heart.com
. The president’s face wilted in confusion and bewilderment. If you want more competence in your team. pay attention. Then the father explains: “People call this ECHO. If you want more love in the world.” “Your life is not a coincidence. hurts himself and screams: “AAAhhhhhhhhhhh!” To his surprise.islamicoccasions.
MOUNTAIN STORY
A son and his father were walking on the mountains.The president rolled his eyes. The president was pleased.

This simple story contains a powerful lesson. The boy began lessons with an old Japanese Judo Master Sensei. the story of one 10-year-old boy who decided to study Judo despite the fact that he had lost his left arm in a devastating car accident. Unwilling to accept this terrible fate. when two of them fell into a deep pit. yelling for him to accept his fate.or even their life. What he had perceived as encouragement inspired him to try harder and to succeed against all odds. the two frogs began to jump with all of their might.” the boy finally said. “Sensei. for example. Take. he thought they were cheering him on. Amazed. Some of the frogs shouted into the pit that it was hopeless. Spent and disheartened. and that the two frogs wouldn’t be in that situation if they had been more careful.A LESSON FROM A FROG TALE
A group of frogs were hopping contentedly through the woods. When they saw how deep the pit was. “Why did you continue jumping when we told you it was impossible?” Reading their lips. they may be the weapons that destroy someone’s desire to continue trying . His companions began a new. the rest of the dismayed group agreed that it was hopeless and told the two frogs in the pit that they should prepare themselves for their fate.islamicoccasions. going about their froggy business. The other frogs continued sorrowfully shouting that they should save their energy and give up. and after several hours of desperate effort were quite weary. the astonished frog explained to them that he was deaf. Finally. after three months of training the master had taught him only one move. destroy their influence and have a lasting impact on the way others respond to them. and that when he saw their gestures and shouting. although his body was wracked with pain and he was completely exhausted. since they were already as good as dead. The two frogs continued jumping as hard as they could.
WEAKNESS OR STRENGTH?
Sometimes your biggest weakness can become your biggest strength.wonder of wonders! Finally leapt so high that he sprang from the pit. “Shouldn’t I be learning more moves?”
100 Moral Stories 22 www. Your destructive. so he couldn’t understand why. Your destructive words can cause deep wounds. one of the frogs took heed to the calls of his fellows. he quietly resolved himself to his fate. the other frogs celebrated his miraculous freedom and then gathering around him asked. Your encouraging words can lift someone up and help him or her make it through the day. and more responsible. All of the other frogs gathered around the pit to see what could be done to help their companions. The boy was doing well. and died as the others looked on in helpless grief. more obedient to the froggy rules.com
. careless word can diminish someone in the eyes of others. because they were as good as dead. lay down at the bottom of the pit. The other frog continued to jump with every ounce of energy he had. The weary frog jumped harder and harder and . stop the pain and just die.

Not quite understanding.islamicoccasions. the Adversary (Satan) decided to enter the picture by placing thoughts into the weary mind: “you have been pushing against that rock for a long time. stronger. Each night the man returned to his cabin sore and worn out. Then the boy summoned the courage to ask what was really on his mind. the Sensei took the boy to his first tournament. giving the man the impression that the task was impossible and that he was a failure. “Let him continue. Concerned that the boy might get hurt. massive surface of the unmoving rock. Surprising himself.” Soon after the match resumed. and more experienced.” The boy’s biggest weakness had become his biggest strength. his opponent was bigger.U.” the Sensei answered.H!
A man was sleeping at night in his cabin when suddenly his room filled with light.” the Sensei replied. Several months later. the boy appeared to be overmatched. For a while. the boy used his move to pin him. and it hasn’t moved. the boy easily won his first two matches. On the way home. the boy was now in the finals. the referee called a time-out. “Sensei.” the Sensei insisted. He was the champion.
JUST P. pushing with all of his might. but after some time. So. this the man did. feeling that his whole day had been spent in vain. the boy deftly used his one move to win the match. his opponent made a critical mistake: he dropped his guard.“This is the only move you know.S. “Why kill yourself over this?”
100 Moral Stories 23 www. Satan said. And second. how did I win the tournament with only one move?” “You won for two reasons. but believing in his teacher. “No. the boy kept training. He was about to stop the match when the sensei intervened. This time. the only known defense for that move is for your opponent to grab your left arm. The third match proved to be more difficult.com
. Still amazed by his success.” Thus. you’ve almost mastered one of the most difficult throws in all of Judo. These thoughts discouraged and disheartened the man. For many years he toiled from sun up to sun down. his shoulders set squarely against the cold. the boy and Sensei reviewed every move in each and every match. but this is the only move you’ll ever need to know. and showed him a large rock in front of his cabin. day after day. his opponent became impatient and charged. Instantly. The Lord explained that the man was to push against the rock with all his might. and the Lord told the man he had work for him to do. Since the man was showing discouragement. The boy had won the match and the tournament. “First.

“Just put in your time... Working together for the first time.. It had never been done before.. Yet you haven’t moved the rock. that the bridge in fact could be built... Yet.... I have not even budged that rock by half a millimeter....... He thought about it all the time and he knew deep in his heart that it could be done.... and your abilities now surpass that which you used to have.... Through opposition you have grown much. the father and son developed concepts of how it could be accomplished and how the obstacles could be overcome.....” he said. just P........H! When your money is “gone” and the bills are due .. But your calling was to be obedient and to push and to exercise your faith and trust in My wisdom.H! P + U + S + H = Pray + Until + Something + Happens
DETERMINATON
In 1883...U....... By all means.” That’s what he planned to do.....H! When the job gets you down .. will move the rock.S.. But. It just could not be done. This you have done.. Your task was to push..
100 Moral Stories 24 www. “I have labored long and hard in your service.......S.S.. my servant.com
.............U... your legs have become massive and hard.H! When people don’t react the way you think they should .. when actually what God wants is just a simple obedience and faith in Him. they hired their crew and began to build their dream bridge. when I asked you to serve Me and you accepted.. putting all my strength to do that which you have asked. your hands are callused from constant pressure.....” At times. after all this time.... but decided to make it a matter of prayer and take his troubled thoughts to the Lord... thinking that you have failed. When everything seems to go wrong . a creative engineer named John Roebling was inspired by an idea to build a spectacular bridge connecting New York with the Long Island...H! When people just don’t understand you . just P..islamicoccasions....... Never once did I mention to you that I expected you to move it..... He just had to share the dream with someone else. and that will be good enough. and the headiness of a wild challenge before them. However bridge building experts throughout the world thought that this was an impossible feat and told Roebling to forget the idea.. an up and coming engineer.....S. I told you that your task was to push against the rock with all of your strength. just P. when we hear a word from God. With great excitement and inspiration. What is wrong? Why am I failing?” The Lord responded compassionately... we tend to use our own intellect to decipher what He wants. exercise the faith that moves mountains... giving just the minimum effort.... Roebling could not ignore the vision he had in his mind of this bridge... “My Servant. just P..U.. just P. After much discussion and persuasion he managed to convince his son Washington. “Lord. which you have done...U.. Your arms are strong and muscled. is that really so? Look at yourself.S. Now I.. your back sinewy and brown.. but know that it is still God who moves mountains...U.... And now you come to Me with your strength spent. It was not practical.

It seemed that there was a message for him not to give up.
100 Moral Stories
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www. As he lay on his bed in his hospital room. Perhaps this is one of the best examples of a never-say-die attitude that overcomes a terrible physical handicap and achieves an impossible goal.” “It’s foolish to chase wild visions. Often when we face obstacles in our day-to-day life. indicating to her that he wanted her to call the engineers again. All he could do was move one finger and he decided to make the best use of it. Washington was injured and left with a certain amount of brain damage. Then he used the same method of tapping her arm to tell the engineers what to do. no matter what the odds are.islamicoccasions. Today the spectacular Brooklyn Bridge stands in all its glory as a tribute to the triumph of one man’s indomitable spirit and his determination not to be defeated by circumstances. Even the most distant dream can be realized with determination and persistence. He tried to inspire and pass on his enthusiasm to some of his friends. he slowly developed a code of communication with his wife. The Brooklyn Bridge shows us that dreams that seem impossible can be realized with determination and persistence. By moving this. For 13 years Washington tapped out his instructions with his finger on his wife’s arm. with the sunlight streaming through the windows.com
.” Everyone had a negative comment to make and felt that the project should be scrapped since the Roeblings were the only ones who knew how the bridge could be built. “We told them so. and to their faith in a man who was considered mad by half the world. but when it was only a few months underway a tragic accident on the site took the life of John Roebling. In spite of his handicap Washington was never discouraged and still had a burning desire to complete the bridge and his mind was still as sharp as ever. It stands too as a tangible monument to the love and devotion of his wife who for 13 long years patiently decoded the messages of her husband and told the engineers what to do. It is also a tribute to the engineers and their team work. It seemed foolish but the project was under way again. until the bridge was finally completed. a gentle breeze blew the flimsy white curtains apart and he was able to see the sky and the tops of the trees outside for just a moment.The project started well. our hurdles seem very small in comparison to what many others have to face. He touched his wife’s arm with that finger.” “Crazy men and their crazy dreams. which resulted in him not being able to walk or talk or even move. Suddenly an idea hit him. but they were too daunted by the task.

perfect to the end for which it was made. Because of my flaws. Without you being just the way you are. The water-bearer felt sorry for the old cracked pot. it spoke to the water-bearer one day by the stream.” Each of us has our own unique flaw. “Did you notice that there were flowers only on your side of your path. to deliver only half my load because this crack in my side causes water to leak out all the way back to your master’s house.” “Why?” asked the bearer. with the bearer delivering only one and a half pot full of water in his master’s house.” Indeed. I planted flower seeds on your side of the path.com
. and miserable that it was able to accomplish only half of what it had been made to do. you’ve watered them. and in his compassion he said. “What are you ashamed of ?” “I have been able. the old cracked pot took notice of the sun warming the beautiful wild flowers on the side of the path. But the poor cracked pot was ashamed of its own imperfection. and I took advantage of it. each hung on each end of a pole which he carried across his neck. the pot said. for these past two years.THE CRACKED POT
Once upon a time there was a water-bearer in India who had two large pots. After two years of what it perceived to be a bitter failure. I want you to notice the beautiful flowers along the path. and every day while we walk back from the stream. The bearer said to the pot. and so again it apologized to the bearer for its failure. and while the other pot was perfect and always delivered a full portion of water at the end of the long walk from the stream to the master’s house. You’ve just got to take each person for what they are and look for the good in them. For two years I have been able to pick these beautiful flowers to decorate my master’s table. the cracked pot arrived only half full.
100 Moral Stories 26 www. For a full two years this went on daily. the perfect pot was proud of its accomplishments.islamicoccasions. “As we return to the master’s house. “I am ashamed of myself. But it’s the cracks and flaws we each have that make our lives together so very interesting and warding. But at the end of the trail. he would not have this beauty to grace his house. you have to do all of this work and you don’t get full value from your efforts. as they went up the hill. it still felt bad because it had leaked out half its load. and I want to apologize to you. One of the pots had a crack in it. Of course. but not on the other pot’s side? That’s because have always known about your flaw. and this cheered it some.

“What are you reciting?” “The Qur’an” he replied. “Your steps are small and your destination far.” The client stopped for a moment thinking but he didn’t want to respond so as to prevent an argument. I don’t believe that God exists as you say so. “Well I am here and I am a barber.” He said. “To the house of Allah (Makkah). he saw a man in the street with a long hair and beard (it seems that it had been a long time since he had his cut and he looked so untidy). you just have to go out in the street to realize that God does not exist.” I further asked. barbers do exist. He started to have a good conversation with the barber who attended him.” He replied. once I saw a young boy walking through the jungle. “They don’t exist because if they did there would be no people with long hair and beard like that man who walks in the street. The barber finished his job and the client went out of the shop. it’s so easy. “Where are you going?” He retorted.” He responded. “I have witnessed death approach people younger than me and therefore would like to prepare if death was to knock on my door. I inquired.”
A BOY WITH STRONG BELIEF
Shaykh Fath al-Mowsily relates. what happens is people don’t go to Him and do not look for Him that’s why there’s so much pain and suffering in the world. Just after he left the barbershop.” “Why do you say that?” Asked the client. “I can’t think of a God who permits all of these things. they touched the subject of God. “You are at a tender age. I remarked.GOD EXISTS
A man went to a barbershop to have his hair and his beard cut as always. Well.islamicoccasions. The barber said: “Look man. “Where is your provision and conveyance (means of transport).” “Ah. would there be so many sick people? Would there be abandoned children? If God existed. “That’s the point.” “No!” . It appeared as if he was uttering some words. Then the client again entered the barbershop and he said to the barber: “know what? Barbers do not exist. there would be neither suffering nor pain. Oh. They talked about so many things on various subjects.com
. if God existed. what happens is that people do not come to us. it is not an obligation that you are required to fulfill. “My Yaqeen (belief) is my provision and
100 Moral Stories 27 www.” I continued to ask. tell me. Suddenly. I greeted him with Salaam and he replied accordingly.” “Exactly!” . “My duty is to take the step and it remains the responsibility of Allah to take me to my destination.” I astoundingly commented.Affirmed the client. God does exist.” “How come they don’t exist?” asked the barber.the client exclaimed.

“Oh Shaykh are you still of weak belief?” Source: Stories of the Pious by Shaikh Ahmad Ali. some were running left and right and some were on their knees with their heads in their hands just waiting. would it be appropriate to take your own food?” I exclaimed. The two angels with sheets of paper in their hands. she got up like an arrow and performed Salah/Namaz/prayer. I did. The people were all helping others. it is only the weakness of your Yaqeen that makes us carry provisions. his Salah was always the last to be offered and he prayed it quickly to get it in on time. He began moving frantically from people to people to ask if his name had been called. He fell on his knees and yelled that this couldn’t be.islamicoccasions. He. It was very crowded. Whatever he did. I did not. The angels brought him to the center and left him there. waiting for the final decision. He walked with unknowing eyes through the crowd. Pure fear and apprehension filled him as he realized where he was. the decision was made. He began making Dua and went down to make Sajdah and stayed like that for a while. No one could answer him. he got up and realized that there were only 15 minutes left before Salat-ul Isha. but that seemed so long ago.” His grandmother’s age was 70 but whenever she heard the Adhan. Two people grabbed his arms and led him forward. do you think Allah will let me go to waste?” “Never” I replied. “No!” “Similarly. Whatever Allah ordered us to do. He had been at school all day and was tired. the wait and the fear were so great that he could not have imagined this. turned to the crowd. he again remembered his grandmother and was embarrassed by how he had prayed. I fasted in the month of Ramadan. When he was alive.my feet’s are my conveyance. He was sweating profusely. He opened his eyes but saw only another world. All of a sudden his name was called and the crowd split into two and made a passageway for him. He closed his eyes as they began to read the names of those people who were to enter Jahannam/Hell. His mother invited guests to their house and one table was being set while the other was being cleared. He quickly made Wudhu and performed Salat-ul Maghrib. Thinking of this. “I am asking you regarding bread and water. Every direction he looked in was filled with people. spending his wealth in the way of Islam. He saw his father running from one lecture to the other.
A VERY POWERFUL STORY
He remembered his grandmother’s warning about praying on time: “My son. I helped others. His head was bent down and his whole life was passing in front of his eyes like a movie. He awoke abruptly to the sound of noise and shouting. He approached me and inquired. He knew that whatever he had done in life would be less than what Allah deserved and his only protector was Allah. He was sweating like never before and was shaking all over. He then left. Despite this. At last. I performed my Salah. “How could I go to
100 Moral Stories 28 www. Could this be something his mind made up? No. you shouldn’t leave prayer to this late time. While making Tasbih. so tired.” He began to cry and think about how much he loved Allah. he had heard many things about the questioning on the Day of Judgment. The interrogation was still going on. His grandmother prayed with such tranquility and peace. Some stood frozen looking around. Sometime later I saw him in Makkah. He pleaded his case. He looked around. It was the Day of Judgment. Whatever he ordered us not to do. My Lord has invited His servant to His house. “I too was always on this path. His heart was about to burst. I spread the word of Allah. His name was read first. His legs felt like they were going to collapse.” I explained. however could never win over his ego to get up and pray. His eyes were fixed on the scale.com
.” He replied! “Oh Shaykh if someone invited you to his house.

As his feet dragged.” The old man smiled and shook his head. He decided to take the boy to the great man who might be able to persuade the child to stop asking for sweets all the time. he blinked and lifted his head from Sajdah. I spread the word of Allah to others. The father said to him. “How clean would a person be who bathes in a river five times a day. He looked back one last time. He was yelling of all the good deeds he had done. and they came to the edge of the abyss of Jahannam. The boy’s father thought hard about how to stop the child asking for so many sweets. He found himself in the air and falling towards the flames. He got up quickly and went to perform Wudhu. “I am your prayers. He had just fallen five or six feet when a hand grabbed him by the arm and pulled him back. He was yelling and wondered if there was any person who was going to help him. the holy man gave up eating sweets. During that month.” “Why are you so late! I was almost in the Fire! You rescued me at the last minute before I fell in. and demanded sweets all the time. He always asked for sweets from his father. How could he ask the boy to give up asking for sweets? The holy man told the father to bring his son back after one month. One of the angels pushed him in. The boy’s father had an idea. and did you forget?” At that instant. “Say Your Prayers Before Prayers For You Are Said. his fasts. The boy and his father went along to the great man. they went through the crowd and advanced toward the blazing flames of Jahannam. how he had helped his father. The Jahannam angels continued to drag him.”
WORDS AND ACTIONS SHOULD BE THE SAME
There once was a boy who loved eating sweets. but his eyes were dry of hope and he had nothing left in him. Had not Rasulullah [saw] said.” “Namaz Parh Is Se Pehle Ke Teri Namaz Parhi Jaye. He looked back and these were his last pleas. “You always performed me at the last minute.” His eyes had become blurry and he was shaking with sweat. so too does the Salah performed five times cleanse someone of their sins?” He began yelling. The flames of the fire were burning his face.islamicoccasions. He lifted his head and saw an old man with a long white beard. he was asking if none of them would help him. But the little boy did not understand this. The two angels took him by the arms. and when the boy and his father returned
100 Moral Stories 29 www. because he liked sweets himself. “My prayers? My prayers? My prayers?” The two angels did not stop. the Qur’an that he read.com
. They had gotten closer to the Hellfire. He wiped some dust off himself and asked him. He could not always afford sweets for his son. “Who are you?” The old man replied. He listened to the voices coming from outside. prayers. He was in a sweat. could you ask my son to stop asking for sweets which I cannot afford?” The great man was in difficulty.Jahannam? I served others all my life. His father was a poor man. “O great saint. He heard the adhan for Salat-ul Isha. There was a very holy man living nearby at that time.

the holy man said to the boy “My dear child. “Hana. You’re far more precious than diamonds and pearls. Laila.
YOU'RE FAR MORE PRECIOUS THAN DIAMONDS AND PEARLS
“If memory serves me correctly. As usual. “Your body is sacred.
THE ONE-EYED DOE
A Doe had the misfortune to lose one of her eyes. Then he sat me down on his lap and said something that I will never forget. so I had never before worn such revealing clothing while in my father’s presence. and you should be covered too.” He looked at me with serious eyes. I had been raised Orthodox Muslim. and me up to my father's suite. I was wearing a little white tank top and a short black skirt. covered over with layers and layers of rock. Where do you find gold? Way down in the mine.” A person’s example is much more powerful than just his words. He looked me straight in the eyes and said. “You cannot escape your fate. “Ah. and could not see any one approaching her on that side.after a month. We exchanged many hugs and kisses as we could possibly give in one day. So to avoid any danger she always used to feed on a high cliff near the sea. But the hunters found out that she was blind of one eye.” cried she with her dying voice. By this means she could see whenever the hunters approached her on land. the boy stopped asking for sweets.com
. we must do it ourselves also. everything that God made valuable in the world is covered and hard to get to. with her sound eye looking towards the land.”
100 Moral Stories 30 www. Where do you find pearls? Deep down at the bottom of the ocean covered up and protected in a beautiful shell. Always make sure that your actions and your words are same. Where do you find diamonds? Deep down in the ground covered and protected. and often escaped by this means. The boy’s father asked the saint. the chauffer escorted my younger sister. “Why did you not ask my son to give up asking for sweets when we came to you a month ago?” The saint replied. You’ve got to work hard to get to them. he was hiding behind the door waiting to scare us. When we ask someone to do something. When we finally arrived. will you stop asking for sweets which your father cannot afford to give you?” From then on.islamicoccasions. and hiring a boat rowed under the cliff where she used to feed and shot her from the sea. “How could I ask a boy to give up sweets when I loved sweets myself. In the last month I gave up eating sweets. My father took a good look at us.” Source: More Than A Hero: Muhammad Ali’s Life Lessons Through His Daughter’s Eyes. We should not ask others to do what we do not do ourselves.

If you want to be with the ones you love. there was a bird in a cage who sang for her merchant owner.” Suddenly the merchant’s bird let out a terrible shriek and fell on her head to the bottom of the cage. one of them fell down dead.” Suddenly. Until then there is no joy for me. she swooped up. pushed his hood back. I gained my freedom when I chose to die. “poor thing is dead.
100 Moral Stories 31 www. “I will have to bury her now. My love for her keeps her captive with bars all around her. The merchant was horrified. Before he left for a business trip. He listened to the melodies of many birds. gratefully.” He opened the cage door. And then. nothing to speak of no. and I am cut off from all of life’s sweet things. even life itself. Now my own bird is dead. Suddenly one bird shrieked and fell from a tree brunch to the ground. That bird’s reply instructed me how to win my freedom. she taught me secret.” “My bird was wise. All I had to do was to be dead.” “So now I fly to my Beloved who waits for me. “O you birds! Greetings to you all from my pretty bird locked in her cage. “What Have I done? Now my life means nothing. “Oh. I yearn for my Beloved. good-bye. flew out of the window and landed on the nearest roof slope. The merchant froze to the spot where he stood. He stood before her cage and said. no. “I must know at once.THE CAGE BIRD'S ESCAPE
Once upon a time.” The bird cried. the moment he had lifted the bird out of the cage. by Allah. merchant master. He did not know what to tell his bird when she asked what message he had brought. what have I done?” He cried. my master no longer. “Tell them I sit full of sorrow in a cage singing my captive song. reached in. Good-bye. and said. She sends tidings of her love to you and wants to tell of her plight. Bring me a message from the lovely forest. and was so fond of her that he served her water in a golden dish. He took delight in her song day and night.com
. “I told them your message. What message should I take for them?” The bird said. but I would miss her beautiful songs and cannot let her go.” the merchant reflected. for delivering my message. “Oh. and spread my wings. Oh. He wept in despair.” The merchant traveled on his donkey through the dense forest. I hope it will not be long before I see my friends again and fly freely through the trees.islamicoccasions. Nothing could astound him more than this did. he stopped. you will win your heart’s desire. my heart is full of grief. he asked the bird if she had a wish: “I will go through the forest where you were born. to fly with him. said the merchant. She wants to join her Beloved and sing her songs through the air with a free heart. One bird had fallen down dead! The merchant continued on to the city and traded his goods. Then.” All the birds listened to the merchant’s words.” he said. “Thank you. past the birds of your old neighborhood. My moon has gone and so has my sun.” I do not know what happened. She asks for a reply that will ease her heart. which will set my heart at ease. At last he returned to his home. you must be ready to give up everything. When the merchant reached the forest where his bird came from. and took her into his hands gently and carefully. She turned to him and said. Day and night.

“How can one count the hairs on a donkey?” “Well.
OLD GRAVE
One day. came to Nasreddin’s district and asked to see the wisest man in the place.” “That’s foolish talk.” answered Nasreddin. “What proof have you got of that?” asked the second wise man. and a big crowd gathered to listen. “If you don’t believe me. “Because”. “I can prove it very easily. so can you tell me how many hairs there are in its tail?” “Yes. the third wise man was not willing to do this. “How can one count the stars in the sky? If one is foolish talk. so he said.” answered Nasreddin. “How many stars are there in the sky?” he said. “measure and see.” answered Nasreddin. “You seem to know a lot about your donkey. “Where is the exact center of the world?” “It is under my right heel. I will admit that I was wrong.islamicoccasions. “You can pull one hair out of my donkey’s tail for every one I pull out of your beard.” “How can you prove that?” said the other. If the hairs on my donkey’s tail do not come to an end at exactly the same time as the hairs in your beard. the Nasreddin said to his friends: “If I die.” answered Nasreddin. “count the hairs on my donkey and you will see. bury me in an old grave.” answered Nasreddin. so the second wise man asked his question.” Of course. so is the other.” said the other. who were going about the country trying to find answers to some of the great questions of their time. Nasreddin was brought forward. “How can you prove that?” asked the first wise man.” answered Nasreddin.” “Why”. so the crowd declared Nasreddin the winner of the day’s arguments. “As many as there are hairs on my donkey. he explained.” The first wise man had nothing to answer to that.” answered Nasreddin.THE THREE WISE MEN
One day some wise men.” The second wise man was silent. asked his friends. “There are exactly as many hairs in its tail as there are in your beard.com
.”
100 Moral Stories 32 www. I’ll tell them that I died years before and have already been questioned and then they will return the way they came. The first wise man began by asking. The third wise man was becoming annoyed with Nasreddin and his answers. “If you don’t believe me. “if the angels come.

The merchant and his donkey were walking along together. “Is the donkey’s left eye blind. There was nothing the merchant could do. They had not walked far when they reached a river on the road. tricky donkey again set on its way. “Have you seen my donkey?” The boy asked. As they reached the slippery riverbank. “Dear boy. his right foot lame and is he carrying a load of wheat?” The man was happy and said. if you had not seen at the donkey. The merchant laughed at him and said: “You foolish donkey. exactly! Where have you seen it?” the boy answered “I haven’t seen it. But instead of the load becoming lighter. The merchant quickly discovered the donkey’s trick. he asked the boy. This story teaches us that we should not be quick to judge the people. There were wheat seeds scattered on the ground and I understood that he must have been carrying a load of wheat.THE CLEVER BOY
A man with his donkey carrying two sacks of wheat was on his way to the market.com
. Unfortunately.islamicoccasions. The judge understood the boy’s cleverness and told the man to forgive the boy.”
100 Moral Stories 33 www. the donkey slipped and fell into the river and noticed that the bags of salt loaded on his back became lighter. When he woke up from his nap he could not see the donkey and started searching for the donkey everywhere.
A MERCHANT AND HIS DONKEY
One beautiful spring morning. The judge asked. On the way he met a boy. The foolish. the donkey fell into the river and wasted all the bags of salt on its back again. “Yes. “I saw the tracks of a donkey and the right and left tracks were different from this I understood that the donkey that passed there was limping. And the grass on the right side of the road was eaten but the grass on the left was not.” This made the man very angry and he took the boy to the village chief for punishment. it became heavier. those who are too clever sometimes over reach themselves. He then returned home again but re-loaded his donkey with bags of sponges. On reaching the river he again fell into the water. how could you describe it?” The boy answered. you should know that. your trick had been discovered. After a little while he was tired and they rested under a tree. a merchant loaded his donkey with bags of salt to go to the market in order to sell them. except return home where he loaded his donkey with more bags of salt. now deliberately. From that I understood that his left eye was blind.

THE FOX WHO GOT CAUGHT IN THE TREE TRUNK
Once upon a time. grains of corn. Finally he went to the edge of the forest and searched there for food. and he became very happy. he felt thirsty and decided to leave the trunk and drink some water from a nearby spring.” he said faintly. which had grown damp during the wet autumn weather. he could not get out of the hole.
100 Moral Stories 34 www. meat and fruit in it! An old woodcutter had placed the food in the tree trunk while he cut down trees in the forest. However. “I wish that I had thought a little before jumping into the hole. The hungry fox immediately thought that there might be food in it. “In that case you can sing all winter as far as I am concerned. He was going to eat it for his lunch.” Yes children. A grasshopper half dead with cold and hunger. bread. “Please give me a grail or two from your store of corn to save my life. he saw there were a lot of food.” The ant laughed I unkindly. No matter how hard he tried. Islam teaches us that we should help the less fortunate. “I was far too busy singing to carry corn about. there was a hungry fox that was looking for something to ear. the fox had eaten so much food that he became too big to fit through the hole. “We worked day and night to get this corn in. this is the result of doing something without thinking about it first. He told himself.islamicoccasions. He jumped into the hole and when he opened the package. the fox could not find food. But it also teaches us that we must work hard and not rely on the kindness of others for our daily needs. said the grasshopper. came up to one of the ants.” he said. And without another word he turned back to his work. The fox was very sad and upset.com
. no matter how hard he tried. After the fox had finished eating. Do you know why? Yes. frosty day in the middle of winter a colony of ants was busy drying out some. Suddenly he caught sight of a big tree with a hole in it. Inside the hole was a package. Why should I give it to you?” asked the ant crossly. He was very hungry. The fox happily began to eat. “Whatever were you doing all last summer when you should have been gathering your food?” Oh I didn’t have time for things like that.THE ANT AND THE GRASSHOPPER
One cold.

The roosters had told the cats that rooster’s combs were made out of fire and that the fire of their combs would burn anyone who disobeyed them! The cats believed them and therefore worked from early morning until night for the roosters. Cat realized that the roosters had lied to the cats about their combs. But the twigs did not catch fire. she put her paw near the rooster’s comb and gently touched it. which it filled with ants for the king of the roosters. We touched it when you were sleep. It is just the color of fire. he ran away. She told her kitten. shaking with fear. They wanted to rid themselves of the king so that the food they gathered through hard work and great difficulty would be their own. roosters ruled cats. Fluffy returned home without any fire and told her mother. But they were afraid of the roosters. because to this very day they are afraid of cats. One night. bring them home. so she returned home empty handed and told her mother what had happened. and it was just red colored. He was still asleep. the king of the roosters became very angry and said to the cats. When Fluffy went into the house of the rooster. the fire on the house of Mrs. gather some dry twigs and place them near his comb. The kitten was afraid to wake the rooster. Then. his stomach swollen with the ants he had eaten. The cats worked hard all day and at night they had to bring all they had gathered for the roosters. Mrs. they scurry away. the twigs did not catch fire. “The roost’s comb does not set twigs on fire. Now. Rooster was fast asleep.CATS AND ROOSTERS
Once upon a time in Africa. Cat went out. Rooster’s house. to bring some fire from Mr. Fluffy rubbed the twigs against the rooster’s comb again but it was no use they would not catch fire. “Now that the rooster is asleep. the comb was not hot. Cat answered “Why can’t you do anything right! Come with me I’ll show you how to make fire with the rooster’s comb.” So together they went to the house of Mr. At first. Mrs.” Mrs. Rooster. Cat said. As soon as Mrs. From that day on. Fluffy fearfully put the dry twigs near the rooster’s comb but it was no use.com
.” Fluffy gathered some dry twigs and took them to the rooster’s house. Fluffy. the cats no longer worked for the roosters. He was still asleep. it was very cold. she saw that Mr. As soon as the twigs catch fire. Cat put the twigs as near to the rooster’s comb as she could.
100 Moral Stories 35 www.” When the king of the roosters found out that the cats knew that he had lied to them. every cat had a purse hung round its neck. The roosters loved to eat ants. she joyfully went out and told the other cats about the rooster’s tricks.islamicoccasions. “I will burn all of your houses if you do not work for me!” But the cats said. “Your comb is not made of fire. Thus. To her surprise. The cats did not like the situation. You lied to us. whenever roosters see a cat. The king of the roosters would take all the food for himself and for the other roosters.

THE PROUD RED ROSE
One beautiful spring day a red rose blossomed in a forest. Many kinds of trees and plants grew there. As the rose looked around, a pine tree nearby said, “What a beautiful flower. I wish I was that lovely.” Another tree said, “Dear pine, do not be sad, we can not have everything.” The rose turned its head and remarked, “It seems that I am the most beautiful plant in this forest.” A sunflower raised its yellow head and asked, “Why do you say that? In this forest there are many beautiful plants. You are just one of them.” The red rose replied, “I see everyone looking at me and admiring me.” Then the rose looked at a cactus and said, “Look at that ugly plant full of thorns!” The pine tree said, “Red rose, what kind of talk is this? Who can say what beauty is? You have thorns too.” The proud red rose looked angrily at the pine and said, “I thought you had good taste! You do not know what beauty is at all. You can not compare my thorns to that of the cactus.” “What a proud flower”, thought the trees. The rose tried to move its roots away from the cactus, but it could not move. As the days passed, the red rose would look at the cactus and say insulting things, like: This plant is useless? How sorry I am to be his neighbor. The cactus never got upset and he even tried to advise the rose, saying, “God did not create any form of life without a purpose.” Spring passed, and the weather became very warm. Life became difficult in the forest, as the plants and animals needed water and no rain fell. The red rose began to wilt. One day the rose saw sparrows stick their beaks into the cactus and then fly away, refreshed. This was puzzling, and the red rose asked the pine tree what the birds were doing. The pine tree explained that the birds got water from the cactus. “Does it not hurt when they make holes?” asked the rose. “Yes, but the cactus does not like to see any birds suffer,” replied the pine. The rose opened its eyes in wonder and said, “The cactus has water?” “Yes you can also drink from it. The sparrow can bring water to you if you ask the cactus for help.” The red rose felt too ashamed of its past words and behavior to ask for water from the cactus, but then it finally did ask the cactus for help. The cactus kindly agreed and the birds filled their beaks with water and watered the rose’s roots. Thus the rose learned a lesson and never judged anyone by their appearance again.
100 Moral Stories 36 www.islamicoccasions.com

THE SELFISH MAN
Once upon a time, there was a selfish man. He liked everything to be his own. He could not share his belongings with anyone, not even his friends or the poor. One day, the man lost thirty gold coins. He went to his friend’s house and told him how he lost his gold coins. His friend was a kind man. As his friend’s daughter was coming from an errand she found thirty gold coins, when she arrived home, she told her father what she had found. The girl’s father told her that the gold coins belong to his friend and he sent for him. When the selfish man arrived, he told him how his daughter had found his thirty gold coins and handed then to him. After counting the gold coins the man said that ten of them was missing and had been taken by the girl as he had forty gold coins. He further commented that he will recover the remaining amount from him. But the girl’s father refused. The man left the gold coins and went to the court and informed the judge there about what had taken place between him and the girl’s father. The judge sent for the girl and her father, and when they arrived asked the girl how many gold coins did she find. She replied thirty gold coins. The Judge that asked the selfish man how many gold coins did he lose and he answered forty gold coins. The judge then told the man that the gold coins did not belong to him because the girl found thirty and not forty as he claimed to have lost and then told the girl to take the gold coins and that if anybody is looking for them he will send for the girl. The judge told the man that if anybody reports that they have found forty gold coins he will send for him. It was then that the man confessed that he lied and that he lost thirty gold coins but the judge did not listen to him. This story teaches us to be always honest as dishonest never pays. YOU ARE PRICELESS TO THOSE WHO LOVE YOU A well-known speaker started off his seminar by holding up a $20 bill. In the room of 200, he asked, “Who would like this $20 bill?” Hands started going up. He said, “I am going to give this $20 to one of you but first, let me do this.” He proceeded to crumple up the $20 bill. He asked, “Who still wants it?” Still hands were up in the air. “Well, what if I do this?” He dropped it on the ground and started to grind it into the floor with his shoe. He picked it up, now crumpled and dirty and asked, “Who still wants it?” Still hands went up into the air. My friends, we have all learned a very valuable lesson. No matter what was done to the money, it was still wanted because it did not decrease in value. It was still worth $20. Many times in our lives, we are dropped, crumpled and ground into the dirt by the decisions we make and the circumstances that come our way. We may feel as though we are worthless. But no matter what has happened or will happen, you will never lose your value: dirty or clean, crumpled or finely creased, you are still priceless to those who love you.
100 Moral Stories 37 www.islamicoccasions.com

BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU PLANT
An emperor in the Far East was growing old and knew it was time to choose his successor. Instead of choosing one of his assistants or his children, he decided something different. He called young people in the kingdom together one day. He said, “It is time for me to step down and choose the next emperor. I have decided to choose one of you.” The kids were shocked! But the emperor continued. “I am going to give each one of you a seed today. One very special seed. I want you to plant the seed, water it and come back here after one year from today with what you have grown from this one seed. I will then judge the plants that you bring, and the one I choose will be the next emperor!” One boy named Ling was there that day and he, like the others, received a seed. He went home and excitedly told his mother the story. She helped him get a pot and planting soil, and he planted the seed and watered it carefully. Every day he would water it and watch to see if it had grown. After about three weeks, some of the other youths began to talk about their seeds and the plants that were beginning to grow. Ling kept checking his seed, but nothing ever grew. 3 weeks, 4 weeks, 5 weeks went by. Still nothing. By now, others were talking about their plants but Ling didn't have a plant, and he felt like a failure. Six months went by, still nothing in Ling’s pot. He just knew he had killed his seed. Everyone else had trees and tall plants, but he had nothing. Ling didn’t say anything to his friends, however. He just kept waiting for his seed to grow. A year finally went by and all the youths of the kingdom brought their plants to the emperor for inspection. Ling told his mother that he wasn’t going to take an empty pot. But honest about what happened, Ling felt sick to his stomach, but he knew his mother was right. He took his empty pot to the palace. When Ling arrived, he was amazed at the variety of plants grown by the other youths. They were beautiful in all shapes and sizes. Ling put his empty pot on the floor and many of the other kinds laughed at him. A few felt sorry for him and just said, “Hey nice try.” When the emperor arrived, he surveyed the room and greeted the young people. Ling just tried to hide in the back. “What great plants, trees and flowers you have grown,” said the emperor. “Today, one of you will be appointed the next emperor!” All of a sudden, the emperor spotted Ling at the back of the room with his empty pot. He ordered his guards to bring him to the front. Ling was terrified. “The emperor knows I’m a failure! Maybe he will have me killed!” When Ling got to the front, the Emperor asked his name. “My name is Ling,” he replied. All the kids were laughing and making fun of him. The emperor asked everyone to quiet down. He looked at Ling, and then announced to the crowd, “Behold your new emperor! His name is Ling!” Ling couldn’t believe it. Ling couldn’t even grow his seed. How could he be the new emperor? Then the emperor said, “One year ago today, I gave everyone here a seed. I told you to take the seed, plant it, water it, and bring it back to me today. But I gave you all boiled seeds, which would not grow. All of you, except Ling, have brought me trees and plants and flowers. When you found that the seed would not grow, you substituted another seed for the one I gave you. Ling was the only one with the courage and honesty to bring me a pot with my seed in it. Therefore, he is the one who will be the new emperor!”
100 Moral Stories 38 www.islamicoccasions.com

Will make life worse or better.com
. Yes. you will reap enemies. The seeds you now scatter. you will reap success. She gave me all she had. “Remember your graves because your If you plant goodness. Allah gives his hand in their hands generous of her. If you plant faith. you will reap guilt. The Charkha Sangh funds were under the charge of Jamnalal Bajaj. you will reap miracles. you will reap loneliness. but she fought her way to the place where Gandhi Ji was sitting. you will reap harmony. That is and helps them…. her hair was grey and her clothes were in tatters. because if they fall possessed. If you plant gossip. village to village collecting funds for the Charkha Sangh.islamicoccasions. way passes over it. After his speech a poor old woman got up. What a great sacrifice she made. The volunteers tried to stop her. If you plant openness. If you plant selfishness. If you plant forgiveness. If you plant greed. If you plant patience. If you plant bitterness. or you will pay for the choices you plant today. “I must see him. you will reap isolation. you will reap victory.” she insisted and going up to Gandhi Ji touched his feet. If you plant laziness. it doesn’t mean much. During one of his tours he addressed a meeting in Orissa. you will enjoy the fruits. you will reap trouble.
100 Moral Stories 39 www. you will reap destruction.If you plant honesty. He asked Gandhi Ji for the coin but Gandhi Ji refused. That was very down. you will reap improvements. you will reap friends. your life or the ones who will come after. and what you send today will If you plant consideration. It will determine what you will reap tomorrow. If you plant pride." Imam Ali (AS) why I value this copper coin more than a crore of rupees.” Imam Ali (AS) If you plant hard work. She was bent with age. you will reap reconciliation. “I keep cheques worth thousands of rupees for the Charkha Sangh. But If you plant dishonesty.
GENEROSITY
Mahatma Gandhi went from city to city. Then from the folds of her sari she brought out a copper coin and placed it at his feet. you will reap intimacy. you sow. you will reap wrinkles.” “This copper coin is worth much more than those thousands” Gandhi Ji said.” Jamnalal Bajaj said laughingly “yet you won’t trust me with a copper coin. You will be dealt with If you plant humility. you will reap trust. meet you tomorrow. If you plant envy. as you deal with others. you will reap stagnation. you will reap what If you plant perseverance. If you plant sin. someday. you will reap greatness. Gandhi Ji picked up the copper coin and put it away carefully. “If a man has several lakhs and he gives away a thousand or two. you will reap loss. you will reap distrust. If you plant worries.”
"Overlook and forgive the weakness of But this coin was perhaps all that the poor woman generous people. So be careful what you plant now.

Nasir carefully took it in his hand and turned it around. Everyone happily agreed.
100 Moral Stories 40 www. But he became so engrossed in his thoughts for he had so many wishes but he must wish for something which was impossible like the wish to be able to fly. When Nasir saw that the people were really regretful. happily returned back to the village. For this reason. Nasir as usual sat in one corner. Every morning and afternoon he would play the flute. He put the crystal ball in a bag and gathered the herd. he called all the people and showed them the crystal ball.” Nasir could not believe that he had actually heard a voice. The parents and neighbors went to him.” One person took the ball and screamed. A shepherd boy whose name was Nasir. The story of stars. The citizens of that village took the crystal ball in their hand and turned it around with surprise. On the following day also.THE CRYSTAL BALL
In the south of Spain. There was not even one garden which existed in the village where the children could play. “I want two chest full of jewelry. because he really had everything he needed. The children could not wait anymore and decided to return the crystal ball to Nasir. He said to himself. on one of these days. Nasir took the crystal ball in his hand turned around and wished that the village become the same as it was before. The patience of the children was running out and they were uncomfortable. “When we had a small village we all were happy and joyful. It said. One day a boy followed Nasir and his herd and hid behind a tree. there was a small village whose people were very joyful and lucky. As usual. The boy waited for the moment when Nasir would go to sleep.com
. “I want one bag full of gold. then I will wish for it. but nobody asked for gardens in their palaces. They were jealous because the person that had a palace had no gold and the person that had the gold had no palace. if I wait till tomorrow I will remember many things. Some also wished for bags full of jewelry. The children played under the shade of trees in the gardens of their home. The expensive palaces and jewelry only bring us pain. At night his grandmother would tell him a story. Early morning each day. The children said to Nasir. The days passed as usual. Nasir and his family were happy and pleased. In the afternoon he would return with them to the village. which says. stayed near the village with his father. took out the crystal ball and for a few moments looked at it. as Nasir was watching his herd and playing his flute he suddenly saw a wonderful light behind the flower bush.islamicoccasions.” The parent also spoke. the citizens of the village were angry and were not speaking to each other. When he arrived in the village. Suddenly they heard a voice from inside the crystal ball. if you really want everything to return to its own place. With surprise suddenly he heard a weak voice coming from the crystal ball. In one way or another nobody is happy. and Nasir appeared to be very cheerful that the people around him were amazed to see his cheerful disposition. he said I have not wished till now. The crystal ball was glittering like a colorful rainbow. When he came towards the branches he saw a transparent and most beautiful crystal ball. Then he took the crystal ball and ran away.” Another took the ball and said loudly. “I can fulfill your wish. “You can make a wish that your heart desires and I will fulfill it. Nasir could not decide what to wish for. This story really interested Nasir. mother and grandmother. All their wishes were fulfilled but still the citizens of the village were not happy. He decided that he would not tell anyone about the crystal ball. he takes his herd of goats up the hills to find a suitable place for them to graze. Everyone quickly turned towards the village and saw it became the same old village with gardens full of trees and fruits.” Some of them wished that they would have their own palace with grand door made from pure gold instead of their old houses.

The young couple came to them and asked them.” The young couple began their journey. One day. we are happy in every way except for one thing.com
. In one place they heard that the governor and his wife were the happiest people. The wise old man told them.” No.” The young couple at once understood that it is very difficult to
100 Moral Stories 41 www. She laid the mat and started to eat contentedly. so that their happiness too would last throughout. we are really happy in every way except that we have too many children which make our life a bit uncomfortable. then keep that piece of cloth with you. cities. They arrived in one city where they had heard that the happiest couple lived. so they continued their journey. So the couple decided to visit the wise old man and tell him their source of worry. so they went to their palace and asked them. this couple did not sound to be the happiest. “Are you the happiest couple?” The governor and his wife replied. So they continued their journey. “If I give you a piece of cloth from my shirt then I will be left without any clothes since I own just one shirt. From the next day and everyday at sunset the sound of Nasir’s flute could be heard in the village. “Yes. towns and villages asking the same question but they did not find what they were looking for. whether their happiness would last forever or would they too would have to face problems. he could solve all kinds of problems and guide people.Once again the people started to live happily and the children played under the shade of trees.
This story teaches us that we should be happy with whatever we have and not to be greedy. One Day the young couple came across a shepherd in the desert. “Are you the happiest couple?” The couple replied. They went to their house and asked them. “Nobody is unhappier than the king.islamicoccasions. They visited many countries. ask them for a piece of cloth from the man’s shirt. they heard that a wise old man had come to town. The shepherd greeted his wife and gently patted the child she was carrying. “Are you the happiest couple?” The shepherd and his wife replied. When you find such a couple.” The young couple immediately realized that they were the happiest couple and asked them for a piece of the shepherd’s shirt. And. “Yes. and you always remain happy. we do not have any children. to find the happiest couple in their world. The only thing that they worried about was. The shepherd said.” Well that didn’t make the governor and his wife the happiest couple. “Travel around the world and seek a man and a woman who are perfectly happy as a couple.
THE SIGNS OF HAPPINESS
There was a young couple who led a very happy life together. The shepherd was grazing his sheep when his wife and child came along.

nobody is perfectly happy. “When old age comes two things become young. “Yes! Sir. She said yes and said. They also complained that his guidance was difficult to abide by.” The Caliph thanked her and gave her one hundred dinars. After some time a very old woman was brought before the Caliph. verily for him is a miserable life. “Indeed the sign of happiness is in their heart and they have good manners and if the lifetime is spent in pleasure of God there would be no differences in the existence of mankind. “Well. When she was shown in. why have you come back?” She said. Half the way some thought passed through her mind and she desired to be brought before the Caliph once more. first. I will add more favors unto you. on them shall be no fear nor shall they grieve. for ultimate happiness one must always practice patience. young couple thanked the wise old man for his guidance and returned home. the Caliph asked.
100 Moral Stories 42 www.” She was taken back but on the way she breathed her last. “I just came to inquire whether the monies you gave me were once for all or is it to continue every year?” The Caliph thought. “Don’t worry. Holy Quran (2:45) says: “Seek help through patient perseverance and prayers.” Holy Quran (2:38) says: “And whosever follows My (Allah’s) guidance. all human beings should be thankful and contented with whatever they have. The Caliph said.” After that.find perfect happiness anywhere in the world. “I have learnt that in order to be happy it is important to remember two things.islamicoccasions. The woman thanked Caliph and she was taken back.” The wife said. after this trip I have learnt that in this world.com
. you will be paid every year.”
Holy Quran (20:123-124) says: “Whosoever follows My (Allah’s) guidance.” The Caliph then asked her if she remembered any narration from him. The couple decided to return to their own country. The wise old man laughed and said.” And secondly. one is hope and the other is greed.”
HOPE AND GREED
Caliph Haroon Rashid desired that any one who had seen the Holy Prophet (SAW) in his lifetime be brought before him. The wise man prayed for them and said. “Yes. will not loose his way or fall into misery But whosoever turns away from My message. “Was your journey useless or did you learn something from it?” The young man replied. only that person is happy who does everything to please God. They went to the wise old man and related all that had taken place. The Caliph asked the old woman. “How true is the Prophet’s (SAW) word?” she has hope of life even now and she has greed for money too.” Holy Quran (14:7) says: “And your Lord declared publicly: if you are grateful. “Did you see the Prophet yourself?” She said.

She is a very considerate person. Answer cut like a sharp knife right into the merchant’s heart. “I should have taken much better care of you while I could have!” Actually. endowed you with the finest clothing and showered great care over you. However. the merchant’s 1st wife is a very loyal partner and has made great contributions in maintaining his wealth and business as well as taking care of the household. One day. Whenever the merchant faced some problems.FOUR WIVES
Once upon a time. Then a voice called out: “I’ll leave with you. “Now I have 4 wives with me. will you follow me and keep me company?” “I’m sorry.
100 Moral Stories 43 www. Now I need your help again.” Answer came like a bolt of thunder & merchant was devastated. He also loved the 3rd wife very much. will you follow me and keep me company?” “No!” replied the 3rd wife. When I die. he asked the 4th wife.” The merchant looked up and there was his 1st wife. loved his 2nd wife. we all have 4 wives in our lives. almost like she suffered from malnutrition. “I loved you most. “I always turned to you for help and you’ve always helped me out. I can’t help you out this time!” replied the 2nd wife. Now that I’m dying. “Life is so good over here! I’m going to remarry when you die!” The merchant’s heart sank and turned cold.islamicoccasions. the merchant is always in fear that she might run away with some other men. He’s very proud of her and always wanted to show off her to his friends. Now. But when I die. How lonely I’ll be!” Thus. The 4th wife is our body. the merchant fell ill. he hardly took notice of her. the merchant said. always patient & in fact is the merchant’s confidante. he always turned to his 2nd wife and she would always help him out and tide him through difficult times. No matter how much time and effort we lavish in making it look good.com
. will you follow me and keep me company?” “No way!” replied the 4th wife and she walked away without another word. it’ll leave us when we die. Before long. the merchant did not love the 1st wife and although she loved him deeply. He then asked the 2nd wife. I can only send you to your grave. Greatly grieved. I’ll follow you no matter where you go. Now that I’m dying. There was a rich merchant who had 4 wives. However. He too. The sad merchant then asked the 3rd wife.” “At the very most. “I have loved you so much for all my life. He loved the 4th wife the most and adorned her with rich robes and treated her to delicacies. She was so skinny. He thought of his luxurious life and told himself. he knew that he was going to die soon. I’ll be alone. He took great care of her & gave her nothing but the best.

often neglected in our pursuit of material wealth & sensual pleasure. Snake opened its mouth right under the man so that he will fall into it. The scholar said. The man then looked up to see if there was anything that he could hold on to.com
. that a lion was chasing him. Drops of honey falling from it. Black one is the night and the white one is the day.” Imam Ali (AS)
100 Moral Stories 44 www. Meanwhile. The man then looked below again with fear and discovered that a big black snake had come & settled directly under him. The man wanted to taste one of the drops. he got lost into the honey sweetness. The big black snake with a dark mouth is your grave. He saw another branch with a honeycomb. to eat your time as they take you closer to death. The honeycomb is this world and the sweet honey is the luxuries of this world. are the night and the day. he wanted to taste another drop. RATS. we get lost into it and we forget about our time. he forgot about the two rats eating his branch away.
“This world is like a serpent. So. the lion you saw is your death. So. After a while. The 2nd wife is our family and friends. No matter how close they had been there for us when we’re alive. coming one after another. The man ran to a tree. Then we taste another drop and yet another. The two rats. one black and one white. he put his tongue out and tasted one of the fallen drops of honey. As he did.islamicoccasions. the lion on the ground and the snake that is sitting right under him. The man then looked to his side where the branch he was sitting on was attached to the tree and saw that two rats were circling around and eating the branch. It’s there. just waiting for you to fall into it. To get the meaning behind this dream. he woke up from his sleep. They circle around. the furthest they can stay by us is up to the grave. Meanwhile. the man went to a pious scholar of Islam. Unwise people are allured by it and drawn towards it. One rat was black and the other one was white. The 1st wife is in fact our soul. but so full of lethal poison. and wise men avoid it and keep away from its poisonous effects. we forget about our death and we forget about our graves.Our 3rd wife is our possessions. We like to taste a drop of the luxuries of this world but it’s very sweet. so soft to touch. climbed on to it and sat on a branch. SNAKE & THE HONEYCOMB
Once a man saw in his dream. The honey was amazing in taste. It always chases you and goes wherever you go. When we die. The branch would fall on the ground very soon. they all go to others.
Guess what? It is actually the only thing that follows us wherever we go. status and wealth.
LION. He looked down and saw that the lion was still there waiting for him. Perhaps it’s a good idea to cultivate and strengthen it now rather than to wait until we’re on our deathbed to lament.

.. Although these gouges are painful. not perfect anymore but more beautiful than ever.” “Yes. they stay open. So now do you see what true beauty is?” The young man stood silently with tears running down his cheeks. placed it in his heart and then took a piece from his old scarred heart and placed it in the wound in the young man’s heart... A large crowd gathered and they all admired his heart for it was perfect.. The young man was very proud and boasted more loudly about his beautiful heart. as there were some jagged edges. in some places there were deep gouges where whole pieces were missing. and the other person hasn’t returned a piece of his heart to me. It had places where pieces had been removed and other pieces put in .. The old man took his offering. The people starred .. Yes..” he said. because they remind me of the love we shared. Sometimes I have given pieces of my heart away . and often they give me a piece of their heart which fits into the empty place in my heart . an old man appeared at the front of the crowd and said..THE MOST BEAUTIFUL HEART
One day a young man was standing in the middle of the town proclaiming that he had the most beautiful heart in the whole valley.” The crowd and the young man looked at the old man’s heart. reached into his perfect young and beautiful heart...... and I hope someday they may return and fill the space I have waiting. every scar represents a person to whom I have given my love.. “Yours is perfect looking . Suddenly.. but not perfectly. He walked up to the old man... but full of scars.com
.. You see. “You must be joking. since love from the old man’s heart flowed into his. In fact. I tear out a piece of my heart and give it to them . It fit . which I cherish. mine is perfect and yours is a mess of scars and tears.islamicoccasions. how could he say his heart is more beautiful. but because the pieces aren’t exact. “Compare your heart with mine . and ripped a piece out. There was not a mark or a flaw in it.
100 Moral Stories 45 www.” said the old man. they thought? The young man looked at the old man’s heart and saw its state and laughed.. Physical perfection is not always beautiful. giving love is taking a chance. He offered it to the old man with trembling hands.. but I would never trade with you. I have some rough edges. It was beating strongly . reminding me of the love I have for these people too ... They embraced and walked away side by side.. they all agreed it truly was the most beautiful heart they had ever seen.. “Why your heart is not nearly as beautiful as mine. but they didn’t fit quite right and there were several jagged edges. These are the empty gouges . The young man looked at his heart...

. He then took the bag to a table and emptied it out and began to count the coins. he will be able to come up with some reasoning that here was a King who could have anything he wished for at a snap of his fingers and yet was not contented. He entered his huge living room and came to a stop when he heard someone happily singing away. The man entered the King’s chambers as ordered. However. “Your Majesty.. the King arranged for 99 Gold coins to be placed in a bag at the servant’s doorstep. but since his assistant had advised him to put 99 that is what he did.. there lived a King. One day.” “The 99 Club? And what exactly is that?” the King inquired.. a roof over our heads and warm food to fill our tummy. they are content with whatever little I bring home. The servant was just stepping out of his house when he saw a bag at his doorstep. When he opened the bag. This King should have been contented with his life.. this was not the case! The King always found himself wondering why he just never seemed content with his life.islamicoccasions. having so little was extremely contented. Doing so.
100 Moral Stories 46 www. the King had woken up earlier than usual to stroll around his palace. My wife and children are my inspiration. so many of them.. given all the riches and luxuries he had. the King dismissed the servant and summoned his Personal Assistant to his chambers. but I make enough of a living to keep my wife and children happy. he took it into his house and opened the bag. whereas. He called his wife to show her the coins. We don’t need too much. I am nothing but a servant. place 99 Gold coins in a bag and leave it at this servant’s doorstep. The King asked why he was so happy? To this the man replied: “Your Majesty. I believe that the servant has not been made part of The 99 Club. To which the Assistant replied.. his servant.com
. he still felt something was lacking and he couldn’t put his finger on it. you will then understand what The 99 Club is. The Personal Assistant listened attentively and came to a conclusion. but somehow.” That very same evening. Wondering about its contents. “Your Majesty.Gold Coins. Although he was slightly hesitant and he thought he should have put 100 Gold coins into the bag. The King related his personal anguish about his feelings and then related the story of the servant to his Personal Assistant. He could hardly believe it. This fascinated the King and he summoned this man to his chambers. he saw that one of the servants was singing and had a very contented look on his face. Sure. I am happy because my family is happy. following this singing.” Hearing this. you will have to do the following.. hoping that somehow. he let out a great big shout of joy. attended fancy dinners and parties. He said. to truly know what The 99 Club is.. he had the attention of everyone wherever he went.THE CLUB 99
Some time ago..

our happiness.” He explained: “The 99 Club is just a name given to those people who have everything but yet are never contented. not realizing that he had spent most of the night conjuring ways of working hard so that he had enough money to buy himself that gold coin. we hurt the people around us just as a price to pay for our growing needs and desires. looked around his backyard for hours. and again and again only to come to the same conclusion. he decided that he was going to have to work harder than ever to make up for that one Gold coin to make his entire collection an even 100 Gold Coins.. The King related his thoughts about the servant and once again.. we want even more! We are not the same happy contented person we used to be. One day I heard that the whole Bazaar was burning so I rushed to see my shop. He began to search his entire house. He got up the next morning. 99 Gold Coins.islamicoccasions. not wanting to lose out on that one coin.as he grumpily did his daily errands. To this the assistant replied “Ah! But your Majesty. He went to work as usual . When I reached there I saw that except my shop all the shops were razed to the ground. his assistant listened. but let’s not strive so hard and for so much that we loses all those near and dear to our hearts. shouting at the children and his wife for his delay. what could have happened to that last one coin? For no one would leave 99 coins. in an extremely horrible mood. therefore they are always working hard and striving for that extra one to round it out to 100! We have so much to be thankful for and we can live with very little in our lives. Seeing the man’s attitude change so drastically. We lose our sleep. exhausted. The King could not believe that the servant who until yesterday had been singing away and was happy and content with his life had taken a sudden change of attitude. even though he should have been happier after receiving the gold coins. the King was puzzled. He promptly summoned his assistant to his chambers. How can I call myself a Muslim when I couldn’t feel the loss of my neighbors? That is why I am repenting for that lapse on my part for the last thirty years. we shouldn’t compromise our happiness for moments of luxuries!
REPENTANCE
A person once heard a pious Muslim say that “For the last thirty years I am repenting for a sin and I don’t know how Allah will deal with me regarding it?” The listener asked: “What was your sin?” The pious Muslim said: “I used to have a shop in the Bazaar. we want more and more and by wanting more and more we don’t realize the price we pay for it. Finally. That is what joining The 99 Club is all about. He began to wonder. but immediately I realized my mistake.he realized that there were 99 coins and he thought it was an odd number so he counted again.”
100 Moral Stories 47 www. the servant has now officially joined The 99 Club. I said ‘Al-Hamdo lillah’ (All praise to Allah). singing happily . Striving for more is always good. but the minute we are given something bigger and better.” Hearing this King decided that from that day onwards. he was going to start appreciating all the little things in life.com
.but not in his usual best mood.

” “That man is not from me who sleeps contentedly while his neighbor sleeps hungry. and he begged for her forgiveness. Then he instructed him to take all the dishes of food before him to his neighbor. Daddy. Just as he entered. when you give someone a present. whenever he was discouraged. There is simply no other possession. appeared and said: “Your master has sent for you to come immediately. If you had known and ignored him despite your knowledge.” Sayed Jawad was taken by surprise. And take this sum for his future ration. then you would not even he a Muslim.islamicoccasions. A servant from his master. and God. “By Allah. “Oh. it’s not empty at all.” The man was embarrassed by his earlier over reaction. “This is for you. the little girl brought the gift to her father the next morning and said. have been given a gold container filled with unconditional love and kisses. a man punished his 3-year-old daughter for wasting a roll of gold wrapping paper.” The father was crushed. stating. a great Mujtahid. He yelled at her. He returned home empty-handed and the family is without a morsel of food. from our children. Only a short time later. each one of us. He said: “My master may guide me where I have failed. “Don’t you know. there is supposed to be something inside?” The little girl looked up at him with tears in her eyes and cried. Sayyed Jawad Ameli left his dinner and rushed to Ayatullah Bahrul Uloom’s residence. In a very real sense. and inform me when this work is completed. the master looked disapprovingly at him and said: “Sayyed Jawad! You have no fear of Allah! Don’t you feel ashamed in front of Allah?” This came as a shock to him. “Sit with him to eat. an accident took the life of the child. “I have no knowledge about this.” There was no time to lose.” That is why I am displeased all the more.” he said. They’re all for you. friends. Place it under his pillow or carpet so that he is not humiliated. he would take out an imaginary kiss and remember the love of the child who had put it there. more precious than this.. but his anger flared again when he found out the box was empty. Daddy. anyone could hold. as he could not remember doing anything to incur the wrath of his master. as humans beings. He put his arms around his little girl. so that he does not feel ashamed. Money was tight and he became infuriated when the child tried to decorate a box to put under the Christmas tree. Ayatullah Sayyed Mehdi Bahrul Uloom. I blew kisses into the box. Ayatullah Uloom adjoined. was having his dinner when someone knocked at his door.” Ayatullah Bahrul Uloom replied: “It is now a week that your neighbor and his family are without wheat and rice. Nevertheless. He has just sat down for his dinner but refuses to eat until he sees you..
100 Moral Stories 48 www. How can you be unaware of your own neighbor? Seven days of difficulties have passed and you tell me you do not know about it. Daddy. for not until then shall I eat. He was trying to buy some dates from a shop on credit but the shopkeeper refused to grant him any more credit.” Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him)
A BOX FULL OF KISSES
The story goes back some time ago. It is also told that her father kept that gold box by his bed for many years and.com
.THE NEIGHBOR
Sayyed Jawad Ameli. family members. Well.

the lion sat in a corner and waited till the cows would separate from each other. On catching sight of the cows it became glad.” The reddish-brown cow said: “Sir. The lion lay in ambush nearby for two or three days.” The reddish-brown cow accepted the saying of the selfish lion and started talking to the black cow to keep it busy. but because I am too busy. They said to each other: Which forest has not got a better pasture? Why does the reddish-brown cow believe what the lion says? Doesn’t it know that lions seek other animals only to prey on them? The reddish-brown cow became more and more a close friend of the lion each day. your coming has really pleased us and brightened our pasture. and you also know that the light color is the opposite of the dark color. so that the lion could eat the white cow with more ease.islamicoccasions. Today I said to myself: “Anyhow I should come and see you from near and visit you. It was hungry. The lion called the reddish-brown cow.” The lion said: “I have always remembered you. angry and uneasy. Till it happened one day. was lying in a corner. so that there will be no difference among us any longer and that we will be able to live together well. while the black and the reddish-brown cows were busy with idle talks. and was looking for a prey.com
. the reddish-brown cow said. One day the lion said to the reddish-brown cow: “You know that the color of our bodies is dark and that the color of the body of the white cow is light. They were nice to each other. It would be very good if I eat the white cow. and were grieved at its thoughtlessness. The cows were kind to each other. Two or three days passed since the lion had devoured the white cow. greeted them and said: “How are you my friends?” Are you fine? I have been remembering you for a long time. The cows were together and wouldn’t part away from each other. in which three cows lived.THE THREE COWS
There was a green and fresh pasture. but with no avail. The white cow was left alone and was killed. the reddish-brown colored lion of the forest happened to pass that way. a white cow. A plan occurred to it. and wouldn’t separate from each other. no predator could attack them. a black cow and a reddish-brown one. The lion became unhappy. The lion. you have really obliged us and we are very thankful to you.” Reddish-brown cow said: “Sir. but couldn't attack them. and they used to sleep near each other. It went towards the cows. I can’t come to you and ask about your health. They feared lest it should be deceived. because they were together. They used to graze in the meadow together. So. and have even ordered a better pasture made ready for you. The black cow and the white cow advised it as much as they could.” Both the white and the black cows were troubled by what their friend. The lion was unhappy. and the reddish-brown cow was moving around the lion and grazing. But the cows continued to remain together. because they knew that if they were together. The cow answered: “Yes sir!”
100 Moral Stories 49 www.

also a white has no superiority over a black. went forward and said: “Yes sir!” The lion said: “Today it is your turn. please take your hand luggage because a seat awaits you in the first class. given the circumstances. The Hostess went away and then came back a few minutes later. I am your friend. there are no other available seats in the economy class. Obviously disturbed by this. It will be very good if I eat the black cow. Learn that every Muslim is the brother of another Muslim. the hostess asked you obviously do not see it then? She responded. All the same. Madam. I am going to eat you. nor a non-Arab has any superiority over an Arab. we still have one place in the first class.. I spoke to the captain and he informed me that there is also no seat in the business class. Madam. Almost all the places on this flight are taken. which is not usually told. the other passengers who were shocked by what they had just witnessed stood up and applauded.” The lion devoured the reddish-brown cow very quickly. the hostess replied. It roamed and grazed and said to itself: “It is only me who has the color of the lion. The lion attacked the cow. Sir.islamicoccasions. too. The lion roared and said.. Then it said to itself: “I have finished my job in this forest. just as I thought. she called the air Hostess.” The reddish-brown cow accepted and moved away from the black cow. Lion. with you. was seated next to a black man. get yourself ready.The lion said: “The color of my body and the color of your body are reddish-brown. shaking with fear. what is the matter.” Divide and rule policy. with great fear & horror said: “Why sir.” The lion said: “Quickly. if you would like to.
A WHITE HAS NO SUPERIORITY OVER A BLACK
The following scene took place on a BA flight between Johannesburg and London. It is not usual for our company to permit someone from the economy class to sit in the first class However. and black does not go with our color.. Be calm please. The cow said: “Mr. nor does a black have any superiority over white except by piety and good action. At the moment.
100 Moral Stories 50 www. The lion attacked and devoured the black cow. an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab. I do not agree to sit next to someone from such a repugnant group. quickly!” The reddish-brown cow cried out: “I was eaten the very day the white cow was eaten. Therefore.com
. This is a true story against racism. it was so filled with joy that it didn’t know what to do.” The reddish-brown cow. A white woman. the hostess continued. And as for the reddish-brown cow. and said. and that Muslims constitute one brotherhood. I will go to see if another place is available. Before the woman could say anything. All mankind is from Adam and Eve.. So why do you want to eat me?” The lion roared and said: “Friend of a friendless!” How is it possible that a lion makes friendship with a cow? No matter how much the reddish-brown cow begged and entreated.” A few days passed since the black cow had been devoured by the lion. please allow me to cry out three times before you eat me. the lion didn’t accept its words. I was eaten the very day I made. I did whatever you said. about 50 years old. so that in this forest we all will be of the same color. Now I had better go to other forests. You placed me next to a black man. “O the reddish-brown cow! Where are you?” The reddish-brown cow. I was eaten the very day the black cow was eaten. the captain feels that it would be scandalous to make someone sit next to someone so disgusting.. Give me an alternative seat. She turned to the black guy.

“and you never tied the bandage of thankfulness. that you have. By the time he could be free from the very mind captivating game of cards. “For thirty years you have enjoyed good health. The next day she met another traveler who was hungry." Imam Ali (AS)
A wise woman who was traveling in the mountains found a precious stone in a stream. The traveler left. The hungry traveler saw the precious stone & asked the woman to give it to him. “Because my head aches.GHULAMHUSSEIN AND THE GAME OF CHANCE
Ghulamhusein was a popular social figure and a keen host of guests coming to him from distant lands. This news gave a shock of his life to Ghulamhusein.” He said. It is meant to be prevention than a cure.” the man answered. you tie the bandage of complaint!”
100 Moral Stories 51 www. He lived in Moshi. his servant came again to report that the condition of the guest was deteriorating and needed his urgent attention as there was no one else to attend. For hours they used to get together where they enjoyed the game. But he was so much engrossed to withdraw from it.” he remarked. She did so without hesitation. “I know how valuable the stone is. He knew the stone was worth enough to give him security for a lifetime. After a while. and the wise woman opened her bag to share her food. But Ghulamhusein was so deeply engrossed in the game that he did not want to be disturbed. Once in the midst of a lively game of cards. “Have you been in pain and anguish the greater part of your life?” he enquired.” he replied. rejoicing his good fortune. There and then he vowed never to indulge himself in such a game. again he sent the servant back promising to come soon. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. even without the chance of gaining or losing money. He was generous and hospitable to one and all. It convinced him of the evil and harmful effect of such an indoor game. the servant came for the third time. a beautiful small town at the foot of Mt. “Why have you tied the bandage?” he asked. “Thirty. Now because of this one night head ache. It was not with the aim of gambling but rather just for pleasure and pass time.
FINDERS KEEPERS
"Abstention from sins is better than seeking help afterward.islamicoccasions. So he continued to play with keen interest.com
. “No. But this time he reported that the guest of his a poor traveler from distant lands had already died. He sent the servant back saying he would come soon. but I give it back in the hope that you can give me something even more precious: Give me what you have within you that enabled you to give me the stone. Is this not an eye-opening example of an intoxicating and mentally distracting game of cards.”
BANDAGE OF COMPLAINT!
Once a saint saw a man with a bandage tied round his head. As such.” the man replied. lest man is one day tempted to use the game for gambling purpose. But a few days later he came back to return the stone to the wise woman. commonly played today either as a pass-time or for gambling purposes? Perhaps it also explains the philosophy behind absolute Islamic forbiddance to play or watch such a game. “I’ve been thinking. One of his hobbies during leisure hours particularly on Saturdays and Sundays was to play the game of cards with his friends. his servant came to inform him that a guest of his was seriously ill at the guest house and needed his immediate attention. “How old are you?” he demanded.

” Sikaki repeated this sentence a lot of times so that at the time of examination he should be able to succeed.
100 Moral Stories 52 www. After all whenever the fish is taken out of water. but he left the town and went towards the Jungle. He expected that. where he saw that the water is falling drop by drop from the top and due to the continuous falling of water. With great expertise and interest. And he said: “Maybe my heart is not ready to accept (knowledge) but it is not harder than this stone. When the king was observing the skilled artistry of the beautiful inkpot and Sikaki was lost in the world of thoughts. until another incident occurred: The teacher who was teaching him Shafi’e jurisprudence (fiqh Shafi’e). with countless hopes and thousand of desires. Although for a wise man who has passed the days of his young age. But neither his advanced age nor lack of capability. he decided to search for his lost hopes in the world of knowledge. he presented that inkpot to the king. This incident caused an adverse and deep effect on the heart of Sikaki. taught him this lesson: “The teacher believes that the skin of a dog becomes clean (tahir) after tanning. the king got so much absorbed in welcoming and talking to him that he forgot Sikaki and his skilled artistry. none of these could change his decision. it is fresh. appreciating his artistic skill. But Sikaki’s high spirited mind did not allow him to be in peace. It is impossible that continuous studying and hard work would be ineffective. it was not easy to study with young children and to start right from the preliminary stage.AN AGED STUDENT
Sikaki was a skilled artist an artisan. Perhaps spending a long time in artistic works and handicraft was the reason for stagnancy in his scientific and literary talent. You never be too old to learn something new. he strictly got busy with his studies.com
. He realized that now he would not receive the encouragement he had expected and all his desires and hopes are useless now. But when he was asked to answer this question. the king would encourage him as far as possible. So. In the beginning the king was very impressed by his artistic skill but afterwards an unpleasant event occurred that caused an extraordinary change in Sikaki’ s life and way of thinking. he reached the foot of a mountain. Therefore. literature and books. he got busy in the attainment of knowledge.” The audience upon hearing this answer started laughing. He reflected for sometime. As soon as the scholar entered. he made such a nice and beautiful inkpot that it could be presented to the king.” Therefore. Worse than that. With great enthusiasm and zeal for attaining knowledge.islamicoccasions. in the beginning he did not find any sort of interest in himself regarding reading and writing. a good idea crossed his mind like lightning. so he started thinking as to what should he do. By chance. he said: “The dog believes that the skin of a teacher becomes clean after tanning. the people informed that a scholar-literary person or jury is about to enter the court. he came back and with hard work. But he did not have a choice . He decided to do what the others have done and go on the same way that the others have gone (uptill now). As a result he was reckoned as one of the popular scholars of his time. a hole had been formed in that hard stone. After this incident Sikaki not only left the school . It was clear for everybody that this old man is absolutely incapable of reading and writing.

“How nice!.SUCCESS
A woman came out of her house and saw 3 old men with long white beards sitting in her front yard. She said “I don’t think I know you.” The woman went in and told her husband what was said. but you must be hungry. “Now go in and discuss with your husband which one of us you want in your home. Please come in and have something to eat. “He is Success. and I am Love. “No. One of the old men explained: “His name is Wealth.islamicoccasions. Why are you coming in?” The old men replied together: “If you had invited Wealth or Success. they asked. The other 2 also got up and followed him.LOVE . “We do not go into a House together. let us invite Wealth.” said the husband to his wife.” “Then we cannot come in. “Go out and invite Love to be our guest. we go with him. Surprised.” they replied. Let him come and fill our home with wealth!” His wife disagreed. “Why is that?” she asked.” they replied.” “Is the man of the house home?”.” The woman went out and asked the 3 old men. “My dear.” he said. In the evening when her husband came home.” Love got up and started walking toward the house. but since you invited Love. and said pointing to another one. wherever He goes. Wherever there is Love. Her husband was overjoyed.” Then he added. She jumped in with her own suggestion: “Would it not be better to invite Love? Our home will then be filled with love!” “Let us heed our daughter-in-law’s advice. the other two of us would’ve stayed out. “Since that is the case. “He’s out. she told him what had happened. there is also Wealth and Success!!!”
100 Moral Stories 53 www.com
. She did not recognize them. “Go tell them I am home and invite them in!” The woman went out and invited the men in.” he said pointing to one of his friends.WEALTH . why don’t we invite Success?” Their daughter-in-law was listening from the other corner of the house. the lady asked Wealth and Success: “I only invited Love. “Which one of you is Love? Please come in and be our guest.” she replied.

Love asked Knowledge. please help me!” “I can’t help you. “No. so all constructed boats and left. From world over. Love. Love. “Richness. Sadness was close by so Love asked. Love wanted to hold out until the last possible moment. can you take me with you?” Richness answered. the legendary Wimbledon player was dying of AIDS. 2 to the finals.LOVE AND TIME
Once upon a time. Realizing how much was owed the elder. Sadness. Knowledge. When they arrived at dry land.” Knowledge answered.”
ALWAYS THANKFUL TO GOD
Arthur Ashe. “But why did Time help me?” Knowledge smiled with deep wisdom and answered. When the island had almost sunk.” It was an elder. “Because only Time is capable of understanding how valuable Love is. “Vanity.000 come to the circuit. And today in pain I should not be asking GOD “Why me?” Be thankful to GOD for 98% of good things in life. and all of the others. another elder. . he received letters from his fans. too. let me go with you. 50 reach Wimbledon. the elder went his own way.com
. Richness was passing by Love in a grand boat. There is no place here for you.” “Oh . . 4 to semi final. “Who Helped me?” “It was Time. Love was the only one who stayed. “Sadness. Suddenly.” Vanity answered. You are all wet and might damage my boat. Except for Love. I can’t. Love even forgot to ask the elder where they were going. one of which conveyed: “Why does GOD have to select you for such a bad disease?” To this Arthur Ashe replied: The world over 5 Crore children start playing tennis. there was a voice. Love decided to ask for help. Love said. 5 Lakh learn professional tennis. there was an island where all the feelings lived: Happiness. When I was holding a cup I never asked GOD “Why me?”. “Time?” asked Love. One day it was announced to the feelings that the island would sink. Love. 50 Lakh learn to play tennis. There is a lot of gold and silver in my boat. “Come. I am so sad that I need to be by myself!” Happiness passed by Love. 50. I will take you. but she was so happy that she did not even hear when Love called her.” Love decided to ask Vanity who was also passing by in a beautiful vessel.
100 Moral Stories 54 www. So blessed and overjoyed. including Love.islamicoccasions. 5000 reach the grand slam.

They agreed it was. your God. The presiding judge. It just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem. the sand filled up everything else. you will never have room for the things that are important. He then asked the students again if the Jar was full. The golf balls are the important things. after his initial review of the case. Of course. A professor stood before his philosophy class and had some items in front of him. Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness. They agreed that it was. One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the Coffee represented. A group of Christians from a local church were concerned and planned an all-night prayer meeting to ask God to intervene. The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls.THE MAYONNAISE AND THE COFFEE
When things in your life seem almost too much to handle. your health. When the class began. He shook the Jar lightly. He then asked the students if the Jar was full.. So the professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the Jar. he picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise Jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls. “Now. your life would still be full.” The professor then produced two cups of Coffee from under the table and poured the entire contents into the Jar. but the church hired a lawyer to argue in court that they were not responsible. “I’m glad you asked.” said the professor. stated that “No matter how this case comes out. as the laughter subsided.”
THE BAR
A tale is told about a small town that had historically been “dry.. “I want you to recognize that this Jar represents your life. The rest is just sand. claiming that the prayers of the congregation were responsible. and your favorite passions things that if everything else was lost and only they remained. wordlessly. The students laughed.and the Coffee. The professor smiled. Play with your children.” (no alcohol sold) but then a local businessman decided to build a tavern.” he continued. and your car. family. the things that really matter. The students responded unanimous “yes.” The pebbles are the other things that matter like your job. there’s always room for a couple of cups of Coffee with a friends. If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff. one thing is clear. “there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls. It just so happened that shortly thereafter lightning struck the bar and it burned to the ground.. when 24 hours in a day are not enough. The tavern owner believes in prayer and the Christians do not.com
. your house. He asked once more if the Jar was full. “If you put the sand into the Jar first. Set your priorities. effectively filling the empty space between the sand. The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into the Jar.” The same goes for life. Take care of the golf balls first. The sand is everything else the small stuff.. your children.”
100 Moral Stories 55 www. remember the mayonnaise Jar. The owner of the bar sued the church.islamicoccasions. your friends.

com
.. the third in summer. Help others to realize they can overcome their faults.. and eventually it dies. it died. all the while recognizing the nobility in their soul. The first son went in the winter. Some people do not see the rose within themselves.. This is one of the characteristic of love. The last son disagreed with all of them. and find the rose within them. We despair. by only one season. he examined it. If you give up when it’s winter.. and the youngest son in the fall. and that the essence of who they are and the pleasure. The second son said no it was covered with green buds and full of promise. Within every soul there is a rose. you will miss the promise of your spring. The first son said that the tree was ugly. He told them that you cannot judge a tree. and twisted. to look at a person. thinking that nothing good can possibly come from us. when all the seasons are up. or a person. the defects. the beauty of your summer.. and love that come from that life can only be measured at the end. but noticed thorns upon the stem and he thought. fulfillment of your fall.LESSONS ON LIFE
There was a man who had four sons.
THE ROSE WITHIN
A certain man planted a rose and watered it faithfully and before it blossomed. bent. because they had each seen but only one season in the tree’s life. the second in the spring. So it is with many people. Persevere through the difficult patches and better times are sure to come some time or later. We never realize our potential. it was the most graceful thing he had ever seen. in turn.islamicoccasions. full of life and fulfillment.
The most favorable friend to me is that who shows me my flaws. someone else must show it to them. he said it was ripe and drooping with fruit. The good qualities planted in us at birth. and just before it was ready to bloom. he neglected to water the rose. When they had all gone and come back. If we show them the “rose” within themselves. “How can any beautiful flower come from a plant burdened with so many sharp thorns?” Saddened by this thought.. The man then explained to his sons that they were all right. Don’t let the pain of one season destroy the joy of all the rest. they will conquer their thorns. joy. He wanted his sons to learn not to judge things too quickly. to go and look at a pear tree that was a great distance away. Don’t judge life by one difficult season. He saw the bud that would soon blossom. Imam Sadiq (AS)
100 Moral Stories 56 www. Only then will they blossom many times over. So he sent them each on a quest. know their true faults and accepting that person into your life. he called them together to describe what they had seen. We neglect to water the good within us. he said it was laden with blossoms that smelled so sweet and looked so beautiful. The third son disagreed. grow amid the thorns of our faults. Many of us look at ourselves and see only the thorns. One of the greatest gifts a person can possess is to be able to reach past the thorns of another.

IRJI’II ILAA RABBIKI RADHIYATAN MARDHIYYAH.. Remember friend to “PUT THE GLASS DOWN TODAY” and have tranquility by putting trust in Almighty Allah (swt).” said the professor. “Your arm would begin to ache. ‘125 gms’ . (Al-Fajr 89:27-30) “O soul that is at rest satisfied. the students answered.” By worrying so much. but EVEN MORE IMPORTANT is to have trust in Allah (swt) and to ‘put them down’ at the end of every day before you go to sleep. Hold it for a few minutes in your head and they seem okay. do not turn your life to hell. you might have severe muscle stress and paralysis and have to go to hospital for sure!” ventured another student. “Put the glass down!” said one of the students. and enter into my Paradise.. any challenge that comes your way!” So.. you wake up every day fresh and strong and can handle any issue.. Hold it even longer and they begin to paralyze you. Return to your Lord well-pleased (with Him).com
... as it becomes time for you to leave office today... That way. Good luck. “Ok! What would happen if I held it up like this for an hour?” the professor asked. “Then what caused the arm ache and the muscle stress?” The students were puzzled.” Tranquility is sign of strong faith while worries and stress is sign of weak faith. So.. “How much do you think this glass weighs?” ‘50 gms!’. FADKHULII FII IBAADII WADKHULII JANNATII”.. well-pleasing (Him). you are not stressed.PUT THE GLASS DOWN!
A professor began his class by holding up a glass with some water in it. “Life’s problems are something like this. Think of them for a long time and they begin to ache. But during all this.. “No” the students said. He held it up for all to see and asked the students. Holy Quran (48:4) says: “He it is who sent down tranquility into the hearts of the believers that they might have more faith added to their faith. now what would happen if I held it for a day?” “Your arm could go numb.” “It’s important to think of the challenges (problems) in your life.islamicoccasions.. and all the students laughed.” said one of the students. Tell to your mind every day before you go to sleep: “YAA AYYATUHAN NAFSUL MUTMAINNAH.
100 Moral Stories 57 www. did the weight of the glass change?” asked the professor. “I really don’t know unless I weigh it. enter among My servants. my question is: What would happen if I held it up like this for a few minutes?” “Nothing” the students said. ‘100 gms!’.. “but. “Very good. “You’re right. “Exactly!” said the professor. You will not be able to do anything.

the last rider neared the spot where the old man sat like a snow statue.islamicoccasions. then and there.
100 Moral Stories 58 www. The old man’s beard was glazed by winter’s frost while he waited for a ride across the river. What if I had refused and left you there?” The old man lowered himself slowly down from the horse. no home. Anxiously. Then another passed by.. and another.” Ya Allah. you would wait and ask the last rider. It would have been useless even to ask them for a ride. the rider replied. the old man caught the rider’s eye and said.” Seeing the old man was unable to lift his half-frozen body from the ground.” The old-timer continued. steady rhythm of approaching hooves galloping along the frozen path.” he told the old man. kindness and compassion were evident.com
. Hop aboard. Make me among those about whom the Holy Quran (Hashr 59:9) has said: “And they give them preference over their own selves even though they are in need. looked the rider straight in the eyes. the horseman dismounted and helped the old man onto the horse. the horseman’s curiosity caused him to inquire. “I looked into the eyes of the other riders and immediately saw there was no concern for my situation. Coming my way from across the parking lot was what society would consider a bum. on such a bitter winter night. I reckon I know people pretty good. “Sir. and no money.”
DON’T WE ALL
I was parked in front of the mall wiping off my car. But when I looked into your eyes. I knew. I had just come from the car wash and was waiting for my wife to get out of work. that your gentle spirit would welcome the opportunity to give me assistance in my time of need.” Those heartwarming comments touched the horseman deeply. “I’ve been around here for some time. Finally. “I’m most grateful for what you have said. “Sure thing. but to his destination. From the looks of him.MAY I NEVER GET TOO BUSY IN MY OWN AFFAIRS!
It was a bitter. As this one drew near. He heard the faint. no clean clothes.” Reining his horse. which was just a few miles away. I’m curious why. “May I never get too busy in my own affairs that I fail to respond to the needs of others with kindness and compassion. He let the first one pass by without an effort to get his attention. His body became numb and stiff from the frigid north wind. The wait seemed endless. “Sir. The horseman took the old man not just across the river. would you mind giving an old man a ride to the other side? There doesn’t appear to be a passageway by foot. he watched as several horsemen rounded the bend. and replied.. he had no car. cold evening. Then I came up and you immediately asked me for a ride. I notice that you let several other riders pass by without making an effort to secure a ride. As they neared the tiny but cozy cottage.

Those three little words still ring true. successful and important. I was feeling high and mighty.There are times when you feel generous but there are other times that you just don’t want to be bothered. The expected plea for money never came.” and continued wiping off my car. “Thanks. I reached in my wallet and gave him not only enough for bus fare. He was ragged but he had an air of dignity around him. Maybe the man was just a homeless stranger wandering the streets. They are waiting on you to give them what they don’t have.” Don’t we all? “. Maybe he was more than that. “Ask him if he needs any help. His scraggly blond beard keeps more than his face warm. and then said.” Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him)
100 Moral Stories 59 www. We often look for wisdom in great men and women.” he said.. No matter how little you have.. He sat there quietly as I worked. maybe he was sent by a power that is great and wise. As the silence between us widened something inside said. that only you through a torn world can see.” “I hope he doesn’t ask me for any money. until those three words hit me like a twelve gauge shotgun. We expect it from those of higher learning and accomplishments. A different perspective on life. even without money or a place to sleep..islamicoccasions. you can give help. no matter how loaded you are with problems.. I said. above a bum in the street. “Do you need any help?” I asked. Even if it’s just a compliment. but enough to get a warm meal and shelter for the day.” I was sure that he would say “yes” but I held true to the inner voice. He answered in three simple but profound words that I shall never forget. You never know when you may see someone that appears to have it all..” I thought. “That’s a very pretty car.. Don’t we all? I needed help. Maybe not for bus fare or a place to sleep. After a few minutes he spoke. I expected nothing but an outstretched grimy hand. He spoke the three words that shook me.Even a smile can be charity. He didn’t. dressed him like a bum. no matter how much you have accomplished. to messenger to a soul too comfortable in themselves. a respite from daily chaos.. but I needed help. “Go messenger to that man cleaning the car. No matter how much you have. Maybe God looked down. you need help too. a glimpse at something beautiful. He came and sat on the curb in front of the bus stop but he didn’t look like he could have enough money to even ride the bus. you can give that. “Don’t we all?” he said.com
. that man needs help. This was one of those “don’t want to be bothered times.. called an Angel.

and continued picking the fruits. The stranger began to scream. and you shouldn’t interfere with the work of God and his servant. This man become angry and shouted. she was demanding an answer. The stranger screamed. I was working on my knuckleball.” Then the gardener untied him and let him go free. Why did it have to be me? It wasn’t really my fault.
100 Moral Stories 60 www.THE STRANGER IN THE GARDEN
Once upon a time there was a man who had a big garden. Thirty children tried to think about not only what they had done.” The gardener was very surprised at this answer and thought of a plan.” The gardener paid no attention and continued beating him.” His son brought the rope and the gardener ordered him to tie the stranger to the tree. “Hey you! What are you doing on my tree? Aren’t you ashamed of stealing fruits in the day time?” The stranger on the branch just looked at the gardener but didn’t reply. Now he wanted to pick up the fruits and sell them to make money for his family. but she was this time.” The stranger hesitated and then spoke.” I thought. She seldom became angry. If I admitted guilt. “Who did this?” asked my teacher once more. It was caused by an errant throw of a baseball. It was hard enough saying what I had. He had planted many fruit trees and cared for them till they bear fruits. so I have the right to pick these fruits and you should not interfere between the work of God and his servant. “Why are you beating me? You have no right to do this. “My father is going to have a fit. “go bring a rope and get this man down from the tree. The gardener was very angry and shouted again.com
. I will forgive you but remember that God has given all his servants brains so every person’s deeds are in his own hands. This is your garden and I should seek your permission before taking the fruits. you have no right to take the fruits without my permission so come down at once!” The stranger on the tree answered. “Why should I come down? This is the garden of God and I am the servant of God. but also what our teacher may have found out. “I did it.” The gardener smiled and said. “Who broke this window?” “Oh. “For a whole year I have taken care of these trees. I am sorry for taking the fruits. you are beating an innocent man? The gardener answered. It needed more work. so I have nothing to fear. “Wait don’t beat me. She held up a piece of broken glass and asked.islamicoccasions. “Don’t you fear God. “Since you have now realized your mistake.” I said no more.” I thought. oh. “Why should I fear? This wood in my hand belongs to God and I am too the servant of God.
TO TELL THE TRUTH
“Who did this?” asked my teacher. So. The gardener then took a stick and started to beat the stranger. please forgive and set me free. but some force much stronger than I was pulled it skyward. I didn’t want to raise my hand. I was the one who broke the window. He called his son and said. I told the truth. She wasn’t really asking. I had not done it intentionally. How would I be able to pay for a big window like that? I didn’t even get an allowance. One fine day while picking fruits with his son. the man saw a stranger sitting on the branch of a tree and picking the fruits. I would be in a lot of trouble.

He shook the little man and yelled. We don’t need to understand. he received a steady stream of refusals. the farmer grabbed a lantern and rushed next door to the hired hand’s sleeping quarters. Nothing could blow away. he discovered that all of the haystacks had been covered with tarpaulins. He constantly advertised for hired hands. She then began walking "Do not be like persons on whom advice has no towards my desk. the chickens were in the coops. but I feared she was going to advice. hired him. and we just need to hold His hand to be secure in the midst of the storms. while brutes and beasts always improve start with me and she was going to use a book through punishments. It is yours. Then one night the wind howled loudly in from offshore. The farmer then understood what his hired hand meant. so he returned to his bed to also sleep while the wind blew. “Well. Jumping out of bed. well past middle age. A sensible man acquires guidance through to strike a student.” she said as she stood looking down at my guilt-ridden face. desperate for help." Imam Ali (AS) for the swatting. When you’re prepared.”
WHEN THE WINDS BLOW
Years ago a farmer owned land along the Atlantic seacoast. Most people were reluctant to work on farms along the Atlantic.
100 Moral Stories 61 www. I had never seen my teacher effect. The cows were in the barn. a short. and the doors were barred. mentally. Can you sleep when the wind blows through your life? The hired hand in the story was able to sleep because he had secured the farm against the storm. he hurried outside to prepare for the storm. As the farmer interviewed applicants for the job. busy from dawn to dusk. I told you. spiritually. wreaking havoc on the buildings and crops. and the farmer felt satisfied with the man's work. “I know how you like birds. the farmer was tempted to fire him on the spot. Our Prophet (SAW) and his Ahlul Byat (AS). Although puzzled by this answer.” answered the man. The little man worked well around the farm. To his amazement. I am rewarding you for your truthfulness. Everything was tied down. you have nothing to fear.islamicoccasions.” Enraged by the response. “Here is that field guide about birds that you are constantly checking out. thin man. I can sleep when the wind blows. We with faith secure ourselves against the storms of life by putting our trust in the God. They dreaded the awful storms that raged across the ocean. It’s time we got a new one for the school anyway. approached the farmer. and physically. The book is yours and you will not be punished as long as you remember that I am not rewarding you for your misdeed. The shutters were tightly secured.My teacher went to one of our library shelves and took down a book. “No sir. “Are you a good farmhand?” the farmer asked him. they require punishments to improve them. I can sleep when the wind blows. “Get up! A storm is coming! Tie things down before they blow away!” The little man rolled over in bed and said firmly.com
. Finally. the farmer. Instead.

Only one foot away from the ground. another ship was wrecked. he slipped and fell in to the air. His body was hanging in the air. falling at great speed.” There was a moment of silence and the man decided to hold on to the rope with all his strength. the first man saw a fruit-bearing tree on his side of the land. like magic.com
. and he was able to eat its fruit. and the only survivor was a woman who swam to his side of the land. He was thinking now about how close death was getting. As he was climbing only a few feet away from the top of the mountain. The next morning. they agreed to divide the territory between them and stay on opposite sides of the island. And We? How attached we are to our rope will we let go??? Don’t ever doubt about the words of God. there was nothing. the first man was lonely and he decided to pray for a wife. The first thing they prayed for was food. it came to his mind all the good and bad episodes of his life.” “Do you really think I can save you?” “Of course I believe You can.
THE SHIP
A voyaging ship was wrecked during a storm at sea and only two of the men on it were able to swim to a small. The next day.islamicoccasions. clothes. and in the moments of great fear. He kept falling. We should never say that He has forgotten us or abandoned us. The next day. and the terrible sensation of being sucked by gravity. The two survivors. On the other side of the island. and the moon and the stars were covered by the clouds. all of these
100 Moral Stories 62 www. His hands holding tight to it. agreed that they had no other recourse but to pray to God. desert like island. Zero visibility. After a week. to find out whose prayer was more powerful.” All of a sudden a deep voice coming from the sky answered. when all of a sudden he felt the rope tied to his waist pull him very hard. his body hanging from a rope. more food. “What do you want me to do?” “Save me God. However. He could only see black spots as he went down.THE ROPE
The night fell heavy in the heights of the mountains and the man could not see anything. The other man’s parcel of land remained barren. Soon the first man prayed for a house. not knowing what else to do. All was black.” “Then cut the rope tied to your waist. The rescue team tells that the next day a climber was found dead and frozen. Only the rope was holding him and in that moment of stillness he had no other choice other to scream: “Help me God.

The people dressed him up in expensive clothes and put him on an elephant and took him around the cities to say goodbye to all the people. they discovered a ship that had sunk just recently.” “You are mistaken!” the voice rebuked him. remove all the deadly animals & cut down all excess trees. “What did he pray for that I should owe him anything?” “He prayed that all your prayers be answered. “His prayers were all unanswered and so he does not deserve anything. the second man still had nothing. the animals came and killed them. After three days of being a king. “He had only one prayer. since none of his prayers had been answered. you would not have received any of my blessings. “Why are you leaving your companion on the island?” “My blessings are mine alone. In the morning. They agreed and took him to the island. The king went little bit inside to check. On their way back. This was the moment of sadness for all the kings who ruled for one year. After saying farewell. If not for that. However.” the first man answered. The island was covered with thick Jungles and sounds of vicious animals were heard coming out of them. the first man heard a voice from heaven booming. the first man prayed for a ship. People told him about all the rules and regulations and that how he will be sent to an island after one year. Soon he discovered the dead bodies of all the past kings. The person who would become the king had to agree to a contract that he would be sent to an island after his one year of being a king. which I answered.” “Tell me. our blessings are not the fruits of our prayers alone. but those of another praying for us. the people took the king with a boat to remote island and left him there.islamicoccasions. As they needed a new king. One king finished his term and it was time for him to go to the island and live there.
100 Moral Stories 63 www. As the ship was about to leave.” the first man asked the voice. so that he and his wife could leave the island. since I was the one who prayed for them.com
. He took them to the island and instructed them to clean the Jungle.”
For all we know. The first man boarded the ship with his wife and decided to leave the second man on the island. They requested him to be a king for a year.were given to him. he asked the ministers if they could show him the island where all the other kings were sent. They saw a young man who survived by holding on to a floating piece of wood. First he refused but later he agreed to be a king. The king went back to the country and collected 100 strong workers. he found a ship docked at his side of the island. Finally. He understood that as soon as they were left in the island.
THE CLEVER KING!
There was a country long time ago where the people would change a king every year. they picked up the young man and took him to their country. He considered the other man unworthy to receive God’s blessings.

even if we are kings. Holy Quran (31:34) says: Verily the knowledge of the Hour is with Allah (alone).islamicoccasions. However. ducks. The king then told the workers to plant gardens in various parts of the island. He sent all the earnings to the island for storage. He also took with himself useful animals like chickens. you will be smiling and everyone around you will be crying. Over the months. When nine months passed like this. fear Allah: for Allah is well-acquainted with (all) that ye do.He would visit the island every month to see how the work was progressing. Yea. I have lived that life. Nor does any one know what it is that he will earn on the morrow: Nor does any one know in what land he is to die. “Don’t you know what the wise people say? They say that when you came to this world as a baby. Live such a life that when you are die. “All the other kings would cry at this moment and why are you laughing?” He replied. Amin.” The moral lesson from this story is about how we should live our life. I always thought about the future and planned for it. Verily with Allah is full knowledge and He is acquainted (with all things). The life of this world is to prepare for the life hereafter. The young king would wear simple clothes and spend very little from his earnings as a king. you were crying and everyone was smiling. and let every soul look to what (provision) He has sent forth for the morrow.com
. this king is unusually happy to leave the kingdom. cows etc. People asked him. we shouldn’t get lost into the deceiving and attractive things of this world and forget about what is to come in the afterlife. the king called the ministers and told them: “I know that I have to go the island after one year.” replied the Imam Hassan (AS). In the third month. you do not like to be transferred from flourishing to decline. the whole island was cleaned out. While all the other kings were lost into the luxuries of the kingdom. and He Who knows what is in the wombs. all the animals were removed and many trees were cut down. In this life. I turned the deadly island into a beautiful abode for me where I can stay peacefully. The people dressed up the young king and put him on an elephant to take him around the country to say goodbye to others. In the second month. Rather. goats.” But the ministers didn’t agree to this and said that he has to wait for another 3 months to complete the year.”
100 Moral Stories 64 www. “You ruined your next world and developed this one. May Allah make it easy for us all. why don’t we like death? “Because. 3 months passed and now it was a full year. the island turned into a beautiful place. It is He Who sends down rain.
Some body asked Imam Hassan (AS). but I would like to go there right now. Holy Quran (59:18) urges us to prepare for tomorrow: O ye who believe! Fear Allah. birds. In the first month. he ordered the workers to build big houses and docking stations for ships. we should live a simple life like our beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and save all our enjoyments for the hereafter. Why are we reluctant to die. naturally.

He decided to try and catch it so that he could get the $50. This river was completely polluted. toward the branches of the tree. He decided to plunge into the river. feeling depressed. saw him. This spiritual happiness is the only thing that can satisfy us completely. But the saint could see this man was troubled and being compassionate. He plunged in. who remembers the Day of Reckoning through his deeds. He had been trying to capture a mere reflection of the real necklace all this time. As he was walking.000 reward. the necklace was dangling on the branch of a tree. One day a clerk was walking home along a river next to an industrial area. This time he was really bewildered and came out feeling very depressed that he could not get the necklace that would get him $50. and asked him what was the matter.000. thinking the saint might take the necklace for himself. The necklace was stolen and his people in the kingdom searched everywhere but could not find it.com
. although it was a disgusting thing to do as the river was polluted. and searched everywhere for the necklace and yet he failed. with a beautiful diamond necklace. who is the source of real happiness. He tried again.
“Happy is the man who always kept the afterlife in his view. Material happiness is just like the filthy. The saint then told him that perhaps he should try looking upward. right there. This time he was determined to get it. the princess. he saw the diamond necklace. filthy and smelly. instead of in the filthy river. He told the saint about the necklace and how he tried and tried to catch it. Some said a bird might have stolen it. no matter what.islamicoccasions.THE ILLUSION OF REFLECTION
Once there was a king who had presented his daughter. Then again he saw the necklace. this time he walked in the river and dirtied his pants in the filthy river and put his whole arm in to catch the necklace. dirty river and grabbed at the necklace. Instead we should look upwards. The clerk didn't want to share the secret with the saint. but kept failing. but some how missed it and didn't catch it. The king then asked them all to search for it and put a reward for $50.” Imam Ali (AS)
100 Moral Stories
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www. because it is a mere reflection of the TRUE happiness in the spiritual world.000 for anyone who found it. who led a contented life and who was happy with the lot that Allah hath destined for him. again asked the clerk to tell him the problem and promised that he would not tell anyone about it. so he refused to tell the saint anything. the clerk saw a shimmering in the river and when he looked. and his whole body would become filthy. We can never achieve the happiness we are looking for no matter how hard we endeavor in material life. But strangely. he still missed the necklace! He came out and started walking away. polluted river. He put his hand in the filthy. The clerk looked up and true enough. The clerk mustered some courage and decided to put some faith in the saint. He took his hand out and looked again and the necklace was still there. Just then a saint who was walking by. and stop chasing after the reflection of this happiness in the material world. toward God.

The carpenter said yes. He told his employer-contractor of his plans to leave the house-building business to live a more leisurely life with his wife and enjoy his extended family. You are the carpenter. He resorted to shoddy workmanship and used inferior materials. It was an unfortunate way to end a dedicated career. When the carpenter finished his work. wrote in the sand: “TODAY MY BEST FRIEND SLAPPED ME IN THE FACE. or erect a wall. But. but without saying anything. “Life is a do-it-yourself project. we realize we have to live in the house we have built. we would do it much differently.com
. Someone once said. and every day you hammer a nail. often putting less than our best into the building.BUILDING YOUR HOUSE
An elderly carpenter was ready to retire. you cannot go back. The one who got slapped was hurt. but he wanted to retire.” They kept on walking until they found an oasis. who had been slapped. and one friend slapped the other one in the face. After the friend recovered from the near drowning. The one. place a board. he wrote on a stone: “TODAY MY BEST FRIEND SAVED MY LIFE.” The friend who had slapped and saved his best friend asked him.islamicoccasions. He would miss the paycheck each week. got stuck in the mire and started drowning. Then he handed the front-door key to the carpenter and said. his employer came to inspect the house. But. we must engrave it in stone where no wind can ever erase it. he would have done it all so differently. why?” The other friend replied: “When someone hurts us. Therefore. we should write it down in sand where winds of forgiveness can erase it away. We build our lives. but over time it was easy to see that his heart was not in his work. “After I hurt you.. a day at a time. you wrote in the sand and now. where they decided to take a bath.” Your attitude. my gift to you. and the choices you make today. The contractor was sorry to see his good worker go & asked if he could build just one more house as a personal favor. and to carve your benefits in stone. They could get by. "This is your house. you write on a stone.
100 Moral Stories 66 www. If we could do it over. with a shock. build wisely!
SAND AND STONE
A story tells that two friends were walking through the desert. when someone does something good for us. So it is with us." The carpenter was shocked! What a shame! If he had only known he was building his own house.” Learn to write your hurts in the sand. During some point of the journey they had an argument. Then. but the friend saved him. helps build the “house” you will live in tomorrow..

. All of this I am to do with just a piece of chalk. how and where to register to vote..A TEACHER’S PROTEST!
There was no timetable nor a room designated for PRAYERS in the School. I am to check their heads for lice. the eager teaching prospect said in protest: “Let me see if I’ve got this right. nor I will be successful in my career WITHOUT prayers. a blackboard.” (Ibrahim: 40) “Indeed it is the Prayers. a bulletin board. write letters of recommendation for student employment and scholarships. those who are punctual in their prayers. a few books.”
100 Moral Stories 67 www. and encourage respect for their elders and future employers. no work is a success. newsletter.com
. and you expect me NOT TO PRAY. maintain a safe environment. modify their disruptive behavior. go ahead with your job. & how to apply for a job. telephone. And I am to communicate regularly with the parents by letter. “I resign willingly from the post. patriotism. & report card.islamicoccasions.” Dear sir. We shall make special arrangements for prayers from today. which helps to refrain from indecent acts and evils. and a big smile AND on a starting salary that qualifies my family for food stamps! You want me to do all of this.” “O my Lord! Make me and my children among those who establish prayers.” You want me to go into that room with all those kids and fill their every waking moment with a love for learning. offer advice. seek (Allah’s) help with patient perseverance and PRAYER: It is indeed hard.. recognize signs of antisocial behavior. except to those who bring a lowly spirit. After being interviewed and accepted by the school administration. sportsmanship. You have taught me a very important lesson today: Without prayers and help from God.” (Ankabut: 45) You want me to do all of this and you expect me not to pray when SUCCESS of every one depends on Prayers.. good citizenship. The School was ‘secular.. You want me to wage a war on drugs and sexually transmitted diseases. You expect me not to pray when Holy Quran (Baqarah 2:45) says: “Nay. Holy Quran (Al-Mu’minuun: 9) says that successful believers are: “. You want me to teach them firm belief in God. how to balance a checkbook. observe them for signs of abuse and even censor their T-shirt messages and dress habits. since I am sure that I will not be able to fulfill your expectations. and raise their self-esteem.’ hence prayers were not supposed to be allowed. check their backpacks for weapons of mass destruction. and fair play. And I’m supposed to instill a sense of pride in their ethnicity.” The Administrator looked down for a while then suddenly declared: “Young man.

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. Then he summoned the wife’s relatives and told them the fictitious story. “Here Dolly!” he called. As he was driving the last nail into the post. Then he would tell the wife’s relatives that he had found them together in bed and was unable to control his ire. A similar proverb is present in Persian also: Do not do evil to anyone the sane evil will turn towards you. The moral of this story is that one who digs a pit for others falls into it himself. In a state of anxiety he came out of his house and met an acquaintance to whom he posed his problem. “these puppies come from fine parents and cost a good deal of money. he pulled out a handful of change and held it up to the farmer.” said the farmer.DO NOT DO EVIL TO ANYONE
There was a man in Isfahan who used to beat his wife but unfortunately she succumbed to his beating though he had not intended to kill her. They were satisfied but the person who had devised this plan had a teenage son who did not reach home that day. “I’ve got thirty-nine cents. The man liked the idea and sat at the doorway in anticipation of a young man. He looked down into the Eyes of a little boy. He invited him inside and beheaded him. He was shocked when he saw that the youth he had killed was his own son.” he said. as he rubbed the sweat off the back of his neck. Allah throws him headlong into it. After sometime a handsome youth passed by his house. And slew them both.islamicoccasions. “I want to buy one of your puppies.” said the farmer. He painted a sign advertising the pups and set about nailing it to a post on the edge of his yard. His eyes danced with delight. History is replete with such incidents.” The boy dropped his head for a moment. 3 (English) by Ayatullah Dastagaub Shirazi
PUPPIES FOR SALE
A farmer had some puppies he needed to sell. His evil advice caused the death of his own son. According to Tafserul Mizan the following saying was common among the Arabs: One who digs a hole for his brother. The man was worried and when the son failed to turn up he came to the house of the one whom he had offered evil advice and asked him if he carried out the plan suggested by him. Yes. he felt a tug on his overalls. Out from the doghouse and down the ramp ran Dolly followed by four little balls of fur.
100 Moral Stories 68 www. Then reaching deep into his pocket. But when she was dead he became fearful of her relatives.” “Well. said he and took him near the dead bodies. The little boy pressed his face against the chain link fence. Is that enough to take a look?” “Sure. Reference: Greater Sins Vol. The friend told him to invite a young man to his house and behead him and put the severed head next to the wife’s corpse. “Mister. And with that he let out a whistle.

” I’m sorry..” With that the little boy stepped back from the fence. 5 years later. He then decided to go to the supermarket and buy a 10 KG tomato crate. I don’t run too well myself. and returned home with $60 US.As the dogs made their way to the fence. if you don’t have an email that means you do not exist. you don’t want that puppy. He didn’t know what to do. he succeeded to double his capital. He repeated the operation 3 times. Do you imagine what you could have been if you had an email? The man thought for a while. cannot have the job. “Son.
OFFFICE BOY
A jobless man applied for the position of “office boy” at a very big firm. give me your email address. When the conversation was concluded. 2: If you don’t have internet and you work hard you can be a millionaire. In less than two hours.
100 Moral Stories 69 www.. The man replied “I don’t have a computer. The man replied: “I don’t have an email. He will never be able to run and play with you like these other dogs would. he bought a cart. and began rolling up one leg of his trousers.” the little boy said. And who doesn’t exist. Down the ramp it slid. and yet have succeeded to build an empire. the little boy noticed something else stirring inside the doghouse. Looking back up at the farmer. and I’ll send you the application to fill. pointing to the runt. you don’t have an email.islamicoccasions. He called an insurance broker. reached down. 3: If you received this message by email. then a truck. “You see sir. rather than a MILLIONAIRE. said the HR manager. neither an email. and replied: an office boy! The moral of this story: 1: Internet is not the solution to your life. Thus. The man realized that he can survive by this way. “I want that one. The farmer knelt down at the boy's side and said.com
. He then sold the tomatoes in a door to door round.. In doing so he revealed a steel brace running down both sides of his leg attaching itself to a specially made shoe. Slowly another little ball appeared. the man is one of the biggest food retailers in the US. and then he had his own fleet of delivery vehicles. He started to plan his family’s future. and return late. with only $10 US in his pocket. this One noticeably smaller. Then in a somewhat awkward manner the little pup began hobbling toward the others. Shortly later. “You are hired” he said. The HR manager interviewed him. and chooses a protection plan. he said. and he will need someone who understands. you are closer to be an office boy. doing its best to catch up. The man left with no hope at all. then a test: clean the floor.” The world is full of people who need someone who understands. and started to go everyday earlier.” The broker replied curiously. as well as when you will start. his money doubles or triples every day. the broker asked him his email. and decided to have a life insurance.

islamicoccasions.com
. were gifted to us by the almighty. My father was a government employee and after his retirement. as I will not get anymore holidays soon and they cannot wait for long. In-laws told me. it was as if a dream had come true. the only asset he could acquire was a decent one bedroom flat. Two years passed. Finally I decided to get married. I wanted to do some thing more than him. I decided I would be staying in this country for about Five years (maximum Permit Free Period) in which time I would have earned enough money to settle down in India. My wife enjoyed this country for about two months and then she started feeling lonely. Every year I decide to go to India. After couple more years passed away. I started feeling homesick and lonely as the time passed. to my surprise. Was jubilant as I was actually enjoying shopping for gifts for all my relatives and friends back home. a boy and a girl. I got my ticket booked in the cheapest flight. I started to look for a suitable property. I had to return to the UK. But part work. Every time I spoke to my parents. I tried but I couldn’t get any holidays and was stuck up in the procedures and thus could not go to India. the land of braves and opportunity. After two more years we started to have kids. I was depressed. two years of Burgers at McDonald’s and chicken legs in KFC and discos and 2 years watching the foreign exchange rate getting happy whenever the Rupee value went down. Our savings started diminishing. but to my dismay my savings were short and the property prices had gone up during all these years. I used to call home and speak to my parents every week using cheap international phone cards.
100 Moral Stories 70 www. The next message I got was my parents were passed away and as there was no one to do the last rites the society members had done whatever they could. Two lovely kids. My 2 children and I returned to UK after promising my wife I would be back for good after two years. The frequency of calling India increased to twice in a week sometimes 3 times a week as she also has to call her parents. After reaching home I spent home one week going through all the photographs of girls and as the time was getting shorter I was forced to select one candidate. much to my children’s dislike (by now nearly cocos) and my wife’s joy we returned to India to settle down. Here at last I was in the place where I wanted to be.ONE BEDROOM FLAT
As the dream of most parents I had acquired a MBBS degree and passed PLAB to enter UK. My wife refused to come back with me and my children refused to stay in India. If I miss anyone then there will be talks. My parents passed away without seeing their grand children. When I arrived in the UK. Years went by and visiting India was a distant dream. that I would have to get married in 2-3 days. Then suddenly one day I got a message that my parents were seriously sick. they asked me to come to India so that they can see their grand-children. part monetary conditions prevented it. After the marriage. Told my parents that I have only 10 days of holidays and everything must be done within these 10 days. it was time to return to UK. we (I was lucky and managed to get the visa of my wife early) returned to UK. after giving some money to my parents and telling the neighbors to look after them.

. Well at least they remember me.
THEY ARE NOT IN NEED OF YOUR PRESENTS. I desire God mercy. my daughter decided to get married to a Scottish and my son was happy living in Ireland. I had just enough money to buy a decent Two-bed room flat in a well-developed locality. Now perhaps after I die it will be the neighbors again who will be performing my last rites. Ibn Masud retorted. Let these gifts be for your daughters then. If you want.There are no unanswered prayers. God Bless them.!
A’bdullah Ibn Masud had been one of the close companions of the Holy Prophet (SAW) and had developed into being a distinguished and zealous personality of Islam.com
.Time passed by. even after staying in India. I have instructed them to recite the chapter Al-Waaqiah every night.. replied Ibn Masud.. replied Ibn Masud.. asked.” Imam Musa (AS) 100 Moral Stories 71 www. who recites the chapter Al-Waaqiah every night.. Hazrat U’thman once came to pay him a visit and finding him distressed. I get occasional cards from my children asking I am alright. what distresses you so greatly? My sins. My faithful wife has also left me and gone to the holy abode. which eventually resulted in his death.
“Prayer reverts both what has been destined and what has not been destined. “The honor of a Mu’min lies in night worship and his esteem lies in his being independent of the people. I decided that enough is enough and wound-up every thing and returned to India. he suffered a bout of illness. I lost my parents and children for just ONE EXTRA BEDROOM.. They are not in need of your presents. Now I am 60 years old and the only time I go out of the flat is for the routine visit to the nearby place of worship.. if you permit. Tell me your wish so that I can fulfill it for you. I could call for the doctor. at the time when I was in need. nothing more. Looking out from the window I see a lot of children dancing. This damned cable TV has spoiled our new generation and these children are losing their values and culture because of it. had a house to his name and I too have the same. for surely. you did not give me a thing and now that I am not in need.islamicoccasions. I have heard the Holy Prophet (SAW) say: One.. During the caliphate of Hazrat U’thman. But the question still remains ‘was all this worth it?’ I am still searching for an answer.” Imam Sadiq (AS)
The caliph asked. he answered. shall never be afflicted by poverty. Ibn Masud replied tersely. At times the answer is NO. It is the Doctor who has made me sick. I could present you with gifts from the Public Treasury. Sometimes I wondered was it worth all this? My father. you wish to shower me with presents! Hazrat U’thman insisted.

It’s there. fat. people smiled as though Glamour magazine had listed them as one of the beautiful people of the year. Couldn’t she see that all of the people she called beautiful weren’t beautiful? You were beautiful only if you had a certain figure and face that was classed as beautiful by the laws of the world and glamour. Today when you leave your house. pimply.” (33:56) Dear readers. She was genuine. O you who believe.” Holy Quran emphasizes on remembering the beautiful things Allah (SWT) has created and praise them profusely. If you sincerely look.” (94:4) “Indeed Allah and His Angels are sending blessings upon the Prophet. Trust me and try this.” (93:11) Allah (SWT) Himself remembers and praises the good creations He has created. She wasn’t telling them they were beautiful to get something from them. “And as for the blessing of your Lord. do announce it. Thank you mama for all of the beauty that you have not only seen. each pain etched line held a glimpse of beauty.” In other place he (SAW) says: “A believer is beautiful because Allah has given him beautiful characters. If you really look. carefully look at the first person whom you see and notice how beautiful they are. Most only look on the outside and then compare what they see with the standards the world has given them. I was able to see the beauty in every person. I call things as I see them. “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.com
. look hard at each person. She used to tell me: “Be like a honey bee which always sits on beautiful flowers. you are beautiful. as I stared and opened another set of eyes. Most of the time. I didn’t see beauty. statistical man. “How in the world can Mother call them beautiful?” I am a logical. but added. you’ll see it. they were trying to get something from her. Look at them closely and look for the beauty. Yet when my mother spoke. I used to wonder. They may be balding. That was what I was doing. You will start to see the beauty of every human who you didn’t know existed. You are beautiful.” Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said: “Indeed Allah is Beautiful and He loves beauty. No matter how rough or worn a person looked. When you get home after seeing the beauty in faces you see.
100 Moral Stories 72 www. You just had to look for the beauty.islamicoccasions. When you leave your home this morning. My mother would tell people this with an enthusiasm they could feel. Sure enough. It took me years to finally understand my mother’s vision and the phrase. look in the mirror.YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL!
It’s a phrase that my mother uses a lot.” My mother had a spirit that could see the beauty in a person. or any of the other things the world frowns upon as beauty. I wondered for years what was wrong with Mother’s perception and vision. wrinkled. you will see it. among them is His beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW): “And He exalted your praise (O Muhammad). I didn’t believe that at first until I tried it. May Allah’s beautiful blessings be upon you always. send blessings upon him (you as well) and salute him with a (becoming) salutation.

he placed the faggot into the hands of each of them in succession.islamicoccasions. and unite to assist each other. uninjured by all the attempts of your enemies.
THE FATHER AND HIS SONS
A father had a family of sons who were perpetually quarreling among themselves. When the father calmed down. United we stand. When they had done so.
100 Moral Stories 73 www.BE PATIENT
A man came out of his home to admire his new truck. he innocently said. he determined to give them a practical illustration of the evils of disunion. Trucks can be repaired. upon which they broke them easily. We are allowed to make mistakes. Pause and ponder. Broken bones and hurt feelings often can’t. Divided we fall. Think first before you lose your patience with someone u love. I’m sorry about your truck. Think before you act. but if you are divided among yourselves. “One who cannot benefit by patience will die of grief and excitement.com
. But the actions we take while in a rage will haunt us forever.” Then he asked. one by one. Love one and all. and were not able to do it. Although the doctor tried desperately to save the crushed bones. They tried with all their strength. When the boy woke up from the surgery and saw his bandaged stubs.” Imam Ali (AS)
Think about this story the next time someone steps on your feet or you wish to take revenge. if you are of one mind. He next opened the faggot. and ordered them to break it in pieces. People make mistakes. When he failed to heal their disputes by his exhortations. Be patient. you will be broken as easily as these sticks.
Too often we fail to recognize the difference between the person and the performance. knocked him away. his three-year-old son was happily hammering dents into the shiny paint of the truck. To his puzzlement. We forget that forgiveness is greater than revenge. took the sticks separately. “But when are my fingers going to grow back?” The father went home and committed suicide. he finally had to amputate fingers from boy’s both hands. and again put them into his sons’ hands. He then addressed them in these words: “My sons. and for this purpose he one day told them to bring him a bundle of sticks. Forgive and forget. you will be as this faggot. The man ran to his son. he rushed his son to the hospital.” In Union there is strength. “Daddy. and hammered the little boy’s hands into pulp as punishment.

bent down and picked up yet another starfish. he noticed that the local native kept leaning down.islamicoccasions. By flying in a “V” formation. the whole flock adds at least 71 percent greater flying range than if each bird flew on its own. Time and again he kept hurling things out into the ocean. When the head goose gets tired. friend. “Good evening.when a goose gets sick or is wounded by gunshot. I was wondering what you are doing. and as he threw it back into the sea. he noticed that the man was picking up starfish that had washed up on the beach. when you see geese heading south for the winter. they’ll die up here from lack of oxygen. it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of trying to go it alone and quickly gets back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird in front.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
My friend was walking down a deserted Mexican beach at sunset. People who share a common direction and sense of community can get where they are going more quickly and easily. Can’t you see that you can’t possibly make a difference?” The local native smiled. You can’t possibly get to all of them.com
. flying in a “V” formation. whether with people or with geese flying south. They stay with the fallen goose until it is able to fly or until it dies. And don’t you realize this is probably happening on hundreds of beaches all up and down this coast. If we have the sense of a goose. When a goose falls out of formation. He approached the man and said.” my friend replied. As he walked along. What message do we give when we honk from behind? Finally . it rotates back in the wing and another goose flies point. we will stay in formation with those people who are heading the same way we are. “Made a difference to that one!”
100 Moral Stories 74 www. If I don’t throw them back into the sea. we will stand by each other like that. Geese honk from behind to encourage those up front to keep up their speed. As my friend approached even closer. You see its low tide right now and all of these starfish have been washed up onto the shore. two other geese fall out with that goose and follow it down to lend help and protection. and only then do they launch out on their own. If we have the sense of a goose. or with another formation to catch up with their own group. and falls out of the formation. picking something up and throwing it out into the water.” “I’m throwing these starfish back into the ocean. he replied. As each bird flaps its wings. one at a time.A SENSE OF A GOOSE
Next autumn. My friend was puzzled. you might consider what science has discovered as to why they fly that way.and this is important . he was throwing them back into the water. it creates uplift for the bird immediately following. he began to see another man in the distance. It is sensible to take turns doing demanding jobs. because they are traveling on the thrust of one another.” “I understand. and. As he grew nearer. “but there must be thousands of starfish on this beach. There are simply too many.